Steven Mark Kohn’s The Trial of Susan B. Anthony

By: Suzanne Whitney

On October 26, 2020, ADA Artist Management, Austin Opera, Berkshire Opera Festival, Minnesota Opera, Opera Colorado, and San Diego Opera presented the digital world premiere of The Trial of Susan B. Anthony by Steven Mark Kohn. This was the first production in our Opera Colorado Amplified series.

Mezzo-soprano Adriana Zabala played multiple roles, including the judge, the prosecuting and defense attorneys, a witness, and Susan B. Anthony herself in this seven-movement piece outlining the activist’s quest for justice. She was accompanied by pianist Myra Huang.

A post-performance panel was hosted by beloved tenor and activist Lawrence Brownlee, who was joined by the composer; the performers; the author of the award-winning book The Women’s Hour—Elaine Weiss; President and CEO of the Susan B. Anthony House and Museum—Dedorah Hughes; and President and CEO of Civically Re-Engaged Women—Sharon Nelson.