Opera Nova: Six New Operas Showcase the Future of Transcultural Opera

The International Brazilian Opera Company (IBOC) celebrates ten years with the launch of Opera Nova: Works in Progress. Inspired by Harlem's tradition of independent Black opera companies, IBOC’s founding aimed to bring cultural inclusion to the opera world—a mission that resonates even more strongly post-COVID-19. This new festival reflects Brazilian contributions to transcultural art, building on the legacy of movements like Bossa Nova, which blended Brazilian and global influences to shape a unique cultural identity.

"Opera Nova draws from Bossa Nova’s response to colonialism, rooted in Brazilian 'antropofagia'—a cultural exchange that’s defined artistic movements from Tropicalismo to the once globally recognized Brazilian operas of Carlos Gomes," explains IBOC Artistic Director João MacDowell.

Performance Schedule:
Saint John's in the Village (218 West 11th Street, New York, NY 10014)

• Friday, November 15: 7:00 PM
• Saturday, November 16: 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM
• Reception (Ticketed): November 16, 5:00–7:00 PM, sponsored by Paris Baguette & Canaviais Cachaça

Four of the six new works in Opera Nova are the product of IBOC’s Opera Composition Workshops, designed to foster transcultural collaboration. This festival presents emerging voices from diverse backgrounds, reshaping opera’s future with innovative narratives.

Librettist and activist Nina Smart, the author of Wild Flower in partnership with IBOC resident composer João MacDowell, says, “Our collaboration brings global voices together to address issues impacting women worldwide. It’s a testament to the power of transcultural storytelling.”

Opera Nova isn’t just a showcase but a cultural milestone, highlighting IBOC’s commitment to transcultural opera.

Tickets are available at https://bit.ly/iboc_opera.

For more information, contact Christina Morgan at 718-309-7588 or Christina@Brazilianopera.com.

Visit www.iboc.nyc for IBOC’s mission and upcoming events.