Boston Conservatory at Berklee Center Stage to Present American Opera 'Hydrogen Jukebox'

Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s Center Stage season will begin its spring semester of programming with the contemporary American opera Hydrogen Jukebox, composed by Philip Glass based on the writings of beat poet Allen Ginsberg. Performances will take place at the Boston Conservatory Theater from Thursday, February 7, through Sunday, February 10.
 
Conducted by Boston Conservatory at Berklee alumnus Ryan Turner (M.M. '98, musical theater) and directed by Boston Conservatory Associate Professor of Opera Nathan Troup, Hydrogen Jukebox is structured as a multidisciplinary, episodic opera featuring excerpts from Ginsberg’s longer works. The opera’s name is derived from Ginsberg’s poem “Howl.” Through Ginsberg’s words and Glass’s signature musical storytelling, the production paints an important portrait of American life from the 1950s through the late 1980s, touching upon a variety of social issues, such as the anti-war movement, the sexual revolution, drugs, Eastern philosophy, and environmental awareness. Glass’s score is for a notably small ensemble—only five instrumentalists and six singers—allowing for a deeply personal audience experience.
 
“I am thrilled to direct such a talented ensemble of Boston Conservatory at Berklee’s finest performers for our production of Hydrogen Jukebox,” said Troup. “This innovative piece continues to resonate in everyday life and reflect on the American experience.”
 
Evening performances will take place February 7 through 9 at 8:00 p.m.; a matinee will take place on February 10 at 2:00 p.m. All performances will be held at the Boston Conservatory Theater, located at 31 Hemenway Street in Boston, MA.  
 
Tickets for Hydrogen Jukebox are $25 to $30, with discounts available.

How to Purchase Tickets:

Online: Visit the Conservatory's event page.
By Phone: 617-912-9222, Wednesday–Friday, 12:00–5:00 p.m.
In Person: Tickets to Boston Conservatory at Berklee events may be purchased in person at the Berklee Box Office, located at the Berklee Performance Center, 136 Massachusetts Avenue, Monday through Saturday, between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Beginning one hour prior to the performance start time, tickets may be purchased in person directly at the venue where the event is taking place. All day-of ticket sales are subject to availability.