200 N. Highland Avenue
November 25—December 11
Various times
The award-winning 1985 book, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Other Clinical Tales, by British neurologist Oliver Sacks was the basis of a theatrical production by Peter Brooks and inspired an episode of the hit television show Parks and Recreation.
Perhaps the best-known adaptation of Sacks’ highly fascinating collection of 24 essays—which contain case histories of his patients’ experiences with a variety of neurological disorders—is the opera created by the prolific English composer Michael Nyman. Known for his film scores—many written during his extensive collaboration with famed filmmaker Peter Greenaway—as well as his multi-platinum soundtrack to Jane Campion’s Academy Award-winning film The Piano, Nyman is also a pianist, librettist and musicologist.
Fans of Sacks, the mysteries of the brain and cutting-edge theater alike should not miss Quantum’s Pittsburgh premiere of Nyman’s one-act chamber opera in East Liberty.
Presented as a special limited-run engagement, The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat features an English-language libretto by Christopher Rawlence and a richly layered minimalist score that showcases songs by legendary 19th-century German composer, Robert Schumann.
Guided by the vision of Quantum’s Artistic Director Karla Boos and Music Director Andres Cladera—who have collaborated on several standout productions—the opera was adapted from Sacks’ writing by Nyman, Rawlence and Michael Morris.
The chamber opera features a seven-piece orchestra with strings, harp and piano, and vibrant video projections created by Joe Seamans. Leading the vocalists is basso buffo Kevin Glavin who stars as Dr. P. The opera also features Ian McEuen in the tenor role of Dr. S (aka Oliver Sacks), and soprano Katy Williams as Mrs. P.
Delve into this compelling work at one of Quantum’s special events, such as their opening night with a champagne reception (Nov. 25); Q&A with the cast (Nov. 27), Ladies Night (Nov. 30); Quantum Quaff wine tasting (Dec. 2); and Quantum-on-the-Couch discussion (Dec. 3).
Looking for more events? Check out our 10 Pittsburgh events not to miss in November, 10 great family adventures in Pittsburgh this November and Top Pittsburgh Concerts in November feature stories.