A simultaneous view of the past, present and future, allowing us to choose whether to perceive such overlap as misfortune, or consolation, or both at once.

American playwright Thornton Wilder (who wrote Our Town) adapted his own play for German composer Paul Hindemith’s 1963 English-language chamber opera.  A series of Christmas dinners are celebrated by one family over a period of ninety years, fused into a single, long meal. Hindemith’s expressive music reveals what Wilder called the “mill of time”:  a simultaneous view of the past, present, and future, allowing us to choose whether to perceive such overlap as misfortune, or consolation, or both at once. Audiences will enjoy Parlor Songs performed by the cast before the main opera.

Bar accepts cash only.

Ticketing Refund Policy: Chicago Fringe Opera does not issue refunds for tickets; if you would like to exchange for a different performance date, please contact a member of our team at info@chicagofringeopera.com. If you would like instead to donate your tickets please let us know!

This project is partially supported by a CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events.

Cast

*SELECT PERFORMANCES Tierra Whetstone: 11/16, 11/18 • Melissa Arning: 11/25, 11/29, 12/1 • Gabe DiGennaro: 11/16, 11/18, 11/29, 12/1 • Andrew Groble: 11/25

Covers

Lucia/Lucia II/Leonora
Charles/Roderick II
Brandon

Artistic Team

Music Director
Director
Executive Director
Stage Manager
Shelby Krarup
Scenic Designer
Costume Designer
Lighting Designer
Technical Director
Rehearsal and Performance Pianist
Assistant Director
Alexis Randolph
Production Assistant
Eric Turner

Acclaim

"The Long Christmas Dinner is newly recovered treasure and one holiday invitation no one should pass up."

Chicago Classical Review

"The production is a definite “don’t miss” that you would be wonderful to bring a Christmas posse to or, as some of our characters prefer, celebrate alone."

Schmopera

Media

Supported by The MacArthur Funds for Arts and Culture at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, The CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events, & the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Chicago Fringe Opera is an Opera America Partner.