The Passion of Mary Cardwell Dawson is a new play with music that premiered at The Glimmerglass Festival in 2021, celebrating the founder of the historic and groundbreaking National Negro Opera Company. The work, written by Mark Twain Award-winning playwright and librettist, Sandra Seaton, includes selections from the repertory of the National Negro Opera Company and original music by award-winning composer Carlos Simon, the John F. Kennedy Center Composer-in-Residence.

Alyson Cambridge stars in the title role.

Performed in English with projected English lyrics.

This production is generously sponsored by Robert L. Turner.

Costumes for Mary Cardwell Dawson constructed by Donna Langman Costumes, New York City, NY.

Reminiscing

Watch a 60-second recap of the 2022 Festival.

Watch On Trac|<

On Trac|< is a short film that looks at the intersection of human existence and machine acceleration in rural America.

Support Glimmerglass

Consider a gift to the Glimmerglass Festival. Your support helps ensure stimulating programs and lively interaction with artists and friends.

Cast

Artistic Team

‡ member of the Young Artists Program