Los Angeles, CA (Akhnaten)

http://laopera.org/performances/2026/akhnaten
 

At a Glance

•  Philip Glass’ acclaimed  opera  returns  by popular demand
• Phelim McDermott’s spectacular production features stunning sets and  costumes that feature animal heads, exotic plumes and intricate beadwork
• Music that has permeated  culture from New York City Ballet to  Netflix’s Stranger Things 

Hailed by critics and beloved by audiences, this eagerly anticipated revival transports you to Ancient Egypt in Philip Glass’s enthralling portrait of a trailblazing pharaoh. Countertenor John Holiday is the titular Akhnaten, determined to lead Egypt into a new age even as his plan to abandon the old gods puts his kingdom (and his life) in peril. Mezzo-soprano Sun-Ly Pierce is his queen Nefertiti, soprano So Young Park is the powerful dowager Queen Tye, and Grammy winner Zachary James reprises his memorable role as Amenhotep III, leading the audience through the ritualistic action on the stage. 

Director Phelim McDermott revives his visually arresting production, replete with soaring acrobats, astonishing jugglers, and towering sets. With a libretto drawing on ancient texts like The Book of the Dead and a hypnotic, atmospheric score, Akhnaten portrays a doomed visionary with all his feats and foibles. Finland’s Dalia Stasevska makes her company debut conducting this tribute to one of the most transformative chapters in Egyptian history.

Running time:  approximately three hours, including two intermissions.

Sung in English, Ancient Egyptian, Biblical Hebrew and Akkadian, with English subtitles.

A co-production of LA Opera and English National Opera.  A collaboration with Improbable.