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U.S. Premiere of Gerald Barry's Opera 'Salome' Presented by Los Angeles Philharmonic

opinion-review · 2026-03-27

The Los Angeles Philharmonic's New Music Group, under conductor Thomas Adès, presented the U.S. premiere of Gerald Barry's opera 'Salome' at Walt Disney Concert Hall. This performance, part of the Green Umbrella series, features a cast including soprano Alison Scherzer and explores a condensed, absurdist version of Oscar Wilde's play, contrasting with Richard Strauss's earlier adaptation. Barry's work, characterized by its wit and unconventional elements like typing instead of dancing, continues his collaboration with the orchestra, which has premiered several of his operas over two decades. The event highlights Barry's unique approach to operatic drama and its reception in contemporary classical music.

Key facts

  • Gerald Barry's opera 'Salome' had its U.S. premiere at Walt Disney Concert Hall.
  • The performance was conducted by Thomas Adès and featured the Los Angeles Philharmonic New Music Group.
  • This opera is a condensed, absurdist interpretation of Oscar Wilde's play, differing from Richard Strauss's version.
  • Barry has had multiple operas premiered by the Los Angeles Philharmonic over the past 20 years.
  • The premiere was originally planned for 2021 but was delayed due to the pandemic, with a prior staging in Magdeburg, Germany.

Entities

Artists

  • Gerald Barry
  • Thomas Adès
  • Alison Scherzer
  • Timur
  • Sara Hershkowitz
  • Vincent Casagrande
  • Justin Hopkins
  • Karl Huml

Institutions

  • Los Angeles Philharmonic
  • Walt Disney Concert Hall
  • Green Umbrella new music series

Locations

  • Los Angeles
  • Magdeburg
  • Germany

Sources