Carmina Escobar Stars in Anne Hege’s Innovative Opera ‘The Glance’

The upcoming opera, The Glance, composed by Anne Hege and co-librettist Kim Anno, is set to premiere at 836M. This innovative production integrates live voices, choreography, and a laptop orchestra to delve into themes of love, control, trust, and transformation in contemporary relationships. The cast includes bass-baritone Sidney Chen, soprano Michele Kennedy, and vocalist Carmina Escobar.

Creative Team Behind The Glance

In addition to Hege and Anno, the creative team features art direction from Anno, choreography by Carrie Ahern, and instrument designs by Daniel Iglesia and Curtis Ullerich. The collaboration promises a unique auditory and visual experience that challenges traditional operatic conventions.

Hege, who is also the artistic director of the Peninsula Women’s Chorus, previously garnered acclaim for her first “laptopera,” The Furies. This production premiered in 2022 with the Stanford Laptop Orchestra and received positive reviews for its innovative approach. Hege’s compositions have been featured by prestigious ensembles, including So Percussion, the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, and the Princeton Laptop Orchestra.

Performance Details and Locations

The Glance will run from February 19 to May 29, 2026, with performances scheduled at both 836M and the ODC Theater. The opera aims to resonate with audiences by presenting complex emotional landscapes through a modern lens.

This production represents a significant addition to the contemporary opera landscape, merging technology with live performance in an exploration of human connection. The anticipation surrounding The Glance highlights the growing trend of integrating digital elements in the performing arts, reflecting broader societal themes.

As the premiere date approaches, audiences can look forward to a thought-provoking experience that challenges conventional narratives in opera. The innovative nature of Hege’s work continues to advance the genre, inviting viewers to engage with the profound themes central to modern life.

For more information on The Glance and ticket availability, interested parties can visit the official websites of 836M and other associated venues.