The beloved Gershwin opera, Porgy and Bess, graces the stage of the Gilliam Concert Hall at the Murphy Fine Arts Center.  The tale of  Porgy, a disabled beggar and his attempts to rescue his love, Bess from her overbearing and possessive lover, Crown. 

Porgy, and Bess, will be portrayed by celebrated performers from the world of opera--Kevin Short (Metropolitan Opera, Washington National Opera, et al), Kishna Davis (New York City Opera, Opera Company of Philadelphia, et al), both of whom are Morgan State University graduates.  The all-start principal cast also includes Lester Lynch (Metropolitan Opera, Washington National Opera, et al.) as "Crown" and Larry D. Hylton (Washington National Opera, et al.) as "Sportin' Life."

This American classic will be directed by noted actress, dancer and Tony Award-nominated choreographer Hope Clarke.  Supporting the stellar principals will be members of the world-renowned Morgan State University Choir and the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra, Julien Benichou, conductor. 

A school-time matinee will be performed on Thursday, March 29th at 9:00 AM. Projected duration:  3 hrs 30 minute (including intermission).   Make reservations by calling ticket office:  443-885-4440.

CAST
Porgy - Kevin Short (Fri/Sat/Sun)   Rodney Wing (Thur)
Bess - Kishna Davis (Fri/Sun)   Dimery Mowery (Thur/Sat)
Crown - Lester Lynch
Sportin' Life - Larry D. Hylton (Fri/Sat/Sun)  Duane Moody (Thur)
Robbins/Crab Man - Anthony Johnson
Serena - Ruby Weston (Fri/Sun)   Jasmine Barnes (Thur/Sat)
Jake - Rodney Wing (Fri/Sun) Stacy Harley (Thur/Sat)
Clara - Shana Oshiro (Fri/Sun)   Keturah Gardner Davis (Thur/Sat)

All performances--
Maria: Leah Hawkins; Mingo: Tarrence Huges; Peter: Joseph Johnson; Lily: Candace Potts; Frazier: Warren Campbell; Annie: Yolanda Redding;  Strawberry Woman: Melodye Simpson; Jim:  Brandon Shaw; Undertaker: Tristan Morris; Nelson: Ricardo Horsey; Detective: Brian Naughton; Coroner:  Ridley Chauvin