© Tom Lupton
Wes joins the workshop team as one of the soloists in a new theatrical song cycle developed by fellow University of Michigan alumna Samantha Williams, American Patriots. He will be performing the baritone track at the performances with Renegade Opera in October and Salina Symphony in January of 2024. Learn more at the American Patriots website.
”American Patriots is a theatrical song-cycle that captures the contemporary American zeitgeist from four vastly different perspectives: African-American, Native American, New American, and white Working-Class American. The show asks us to actively examine the way we think about race, class, and who this country is for; and to gain perspective into the lives of other Americans we may not have previously identified with.
Featuring newly commissioned songs (texts taken from contemporary interviews of 50 Americans from across the Nation), American Patriots takes an unflinching look at the lived reality of American Ideals today. The five composers' unique styles create a dynamic auditory experience that reflects the diversity of this country: at times classical, jazzy, Broadway, funny, serious, and alarming, but always engaging and unexpected.
Touring in both a recital and chamber opera format, the minimalist production uses innovative staging, immersive aural design, and visual projections by local videographers to center an “intentional storytelling” process. The socially relevant content and representation of perspectives across disparate racial and socio-economic lines appeal to today’s audiences: a broad base of critical thinkers, activists, and adventurous consumers.”