Roadtrip Rationale: Nixon in China (PDX)

Seattlest is going to expand its scope a bit. We've already taken on the task of mentioning events in Portland every now and then, but rather than making it an occasional thing, we're formalizing that arrangement. We love it here in the Emerald City, but if you've got to get away, we'll help you out with a destination, something that you just can't get here. We won't keep this exclusive to Portland, but we will try to keep it under a 6 hour drive.

The idea for this was inspired by the discovery of the opera Nixon in China. Described by some as a "CNN Opera" because of its subject matter. This work depicts President Nixon's trip to Mao Tse-tung's Red China in February of 1972. While deemed an "American Opera," Nixon in China largely maintains operatic tradition in terms of character development and structure, although departures are made in order to focus on the philosophical contrasts of the main characters.

In general, the music of John Adams and libretto of Alice Goodman combine to tell the backstory of this historical trip, combining both the public and private moments into a narrative of cultural exchange. While some necessary creative license is taken, at points the lead characters' own words are used to describe their reactions to what is transpiring, with the conflict and hesitation inherent in such a big event.

Not being an opera fan or history buff, Seattlest's interest in this opera is a bit surprising. That said, if an opera can build interest among those not normally in its fanbase, that is already a success at some level.

Nixon in China
March 25, 30, April 1, 7:30pm
Keller Auditorium, SW Third and Clay Streets, Portland
Tickets