New Opera by Chicago Critic Howard Reich Explores Holocaust Legacy

Howard Reich, a former jazz critic for the Chicago Tribune, has composed a new opera titled "The Dialogue of Memories," inspired by his book "The Art of Inventing Hope." This work reflects Reich's background as the son of Holocaust survivors and his discussions with Elie Wiesel, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and Holocaust survivor. Their first interview took place in 2012 when Wiesel was honored with the Tribune's literary prize, and their conversations continued until Wiesel's passing in 2016. The opera features Wiesel, Reich, and his mother Sonia, who passed away last year, exploring themes such as the responsibilities of survivors' children and personal identity. Reich found solace in Wiesel's shared struggles, alleviating his guilt over his relatively easier life. The opera will tour three U.S. cities, concluding at Chicago's Studebaker Theater on May 23 and 24, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of Wiesel's death. Reich's exploration began after his mother's PTSD diagnosis, which led to a 2003 Chicago Tribune article, a book, and the WTTW documentary "Prisoner of Her Past." He emphasizes that antisemitism is at a peak during his lifetime and hopes the opera illustrates Wiesel's resilience in maintaining hope amidst despair.