In this episode we explore the intersection of identity and opera with University of Florida musicologist Leo Walker.

Opera, with its grandeur, emotion, and powerful storytelling, has been a stage for human experiences throughout history. Amidst the vast repertoire of operatic works, there are narratives that explore the diverse spectrum of queer identities. These stories, often overlooked or overshadowed, have found their place within the canon, enriching the operatic landscape.

Unveiling the queer threads in the operatic fabric allows us to appreciate the richness and diversity of human experiences. Composers like Benjamin Britten, Leonard Bernstein, and many others, have contributed to this exploration, often drawing inspiration from their own lives and relationships. By examining their music, letters, and historical context, scholars like Leo Walker have shed light on the queerness within the works of these composers, deepening our understanding and appreciation of their contributions to the art form.

These narratives illuminate the beauty and struggles of love, desire, and self-discovery. They transcend boundaries and foster belonging for audiences of all backgrounds and identities.

Episode Credits:

Host - Ashley Daniel Foot
Guest - Leo Walker
Editor - Mack McGillivray

Music Credits:

“Adziu! Adziu!” from Act I of Benjamin Britten’s Death in Venice. Performed by the English National Opera with John Graham Hall as Aschenbach. Conducted by Edward Gardner.

“To Know” from Laura Kaminsky’s As One. Performed by Sasha Cooke, Kelly Markgraf, and The Fry Street Quartet. Produced by American Opera Projects in association with BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music).

“Without You What Am I” from Act III of Rufus Wainright’s Hadrian. Performed by the Canadian Opera Company with Thomas Hampson as Hadrian and Isaiah Bell as Antinous.