The Brick presents
Anthony Braxton Theater Improvisations
by Experiments in Opera
June 15-17, 2023
$30

An operatic realization of Compositions No. 279-283 for comedian and improvising musicians by a giant of American music, composer and saxophonist Anthony Braxton.

Rob Reese, actor/director
Kamala Sankaram, vocals
Nate Wooley, trumpet
James Fei, saxophones
Ingrid Laubrock, saxophones

Thursday June 15 — Rob Reese, Kamala Sankaram, Nate Wooley
Friday June 16— Rob Reese, Kamala Sankaram, James Fei
Saturday June 17— Rob Reese, Kamala Sankaram, Ingrid Laubrock

In celebration of the 78th birthday (June 4, 1945) of Anthony Braxton—one of the most important musicians, educators, and creative thinkers of our time, as well as a mentor to EiO—Experiments in Opera presents a rare run of performances of Compositions No. 279-283, composed in 2000 for improvisational actor and improvising musicians.

While these works have been recorded, they have never been performed live. Drawing on Braxton’s complex systems of graphic notation, character development, and narrative poetics, these compositions ask performers to engage with newspaper clippings, traditional improv comedy techniques, and historical comedy tropes, all in the name of creating a dynamic and surprising evening of music and theater.

Anthony Braxton Theater Improvisations will feature director/performer Rob Reese, as well as a different set of musical improvisers for each night of the run: renowned improvisers Kamala Sankaram (vocals), Nate Wooley (trumpet), James Fei (saxophones), and Ingrid Laubrock (saxophones). Sankaram has sung on every recording of vocal music that Braxton has made thus far: Trillium E, Syntactical GTM Choir (NYC) 2011, GTM (Syntax) 2017, and Trillium J. Together, these performers are re-interpreting Braxton’s scores through the lens of Experimental Opera traditions and shedding light on the avant garde nature of Anthony’s work.

Find them: facebook.com/experimentsinopera, Instagram: @experimentsinopera, Twitter: @expinopera

Poster illustration by Lauren Kolesinskas

Experiments in Opera’s 2022-23 season is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, by the public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council and by support from the Casement Fund, The Amphion Foundation and the Aaron Copland Fund for Music.

***

The Brick is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. We rely on the generosity of our patrons. Consider giving a tax-deductible donation today to help make The Brick a sustainable hub of experimental performance for many years to come. Donate Here or Join Our Patreon

A Note on Accessibility: The Brick has trigger warnings posted in the space for each show for you to check if you so choose. If you would rather ask questions in advance of being in the space or would like to enter in advance of house opening due to our seating not being assigned, please reach out to theresa@bricktheater.com.

Mask Policy: The Brick strongly encourages but does not require masks for audience members. We are in ongoing conversation with our artists and audiences as we continue to adapt our covid policies and it is subject to change at any time. Thank you.