IT AIN’T NECESSARILY OPERA: THE EVOLUTION OF PORGY AND BESS


As you now know, Porgy and Bess did not begin life as the “folk opera” we know and love. DuBose Heyward’s novel was the first iteration of Porgy and Bess’s story. On the next page, read the first words of Porgy.


From Heyward’s introduction, how do you envision the character of Porgy?


What sights, sounds and smells are conjured up by Heyward’s description of Charleston? Compare and contrast this mental picture with the set, lighting and sound design of The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess.


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