Virginia Opera describes its presentation of Damien Geter’s song cycle, “Cotton,” as a “powerful fusion of music and poetry inspired by the captivating photography of acclaimed Philadelphia artist John Dowell.”

The production showcases Mr. Dowell’s decade-long exploration of African-American life and ancestral journey through the lens of the cotton industry.

Starting Jan. 30, “Cotton” will be performed by baritone Adam Richardson, a Virginia native, and mezzo-soprano Tesia Kwarteng, a former Virginia Opera Herndon Foundation Emerging Artist. Composer Damien Geter will attend select performances, providing audiences with a unique opportunity to connect with the creative minds behind this exceptional production.

Mr. Dowell’s evocative imagery inspired eight nationally-renowned African-American poets, including Charlotte Blake Alston, Nikki Giovanni, Afaa Michael Weaver, Trapeta Mayson, Marc Bamuthi Joseph, Lauren Alleyne, Alora Young, and Glenis Redmond, to respond with original poems. Composer Geter then transformed these poems into a moving musical journey, creating a harmonious collaboration of artistic expressions.

Originally commissioned by LyricFest in Philadelphia as part of its 20th-anniversary season, Virginia Opera’s performances of Cotton have been generously underwritten by Dr. Arnold Stolberg. This groundbreaking presentation is a highlight of Virginia Opera’s Pride in Black Voices Civic Engagement Program, reflecting the company’s commitment to diverse and meaningful storytelling.

All performances of “Cotton” are free and open to the public, emphasizing Virginia Opera’s dedication to accessibility in the arts. However, reservations are required to secure a seat for this unforgettable experience. The collaboration is scheduled for the following venues:

St. Mary’s Basilica in Norfolk on Jan. 30. Norfolk State University on Jan. 31. Concert Hall at Virginia Commonwealth University on Feb. 1. Old Town Hall in Fairfax on Feb. 6. Richmond Public Library’s main branch on Feb. 7.

For additional information, please visit https://vaopera.org/pride-in-black-voices or contact the Virginia Opera Box Office at (866) 673-7282.