2024

American Patriots 
Featuring Samantha Rose Williams and Sarah Thune




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.