An all-Black opera is celebrating the life of classical singer Portia White, who was known as the first Black Canadian concert singer to achieve international fame. The Canadian Opera Company Theatre is premiering Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White in Toronto this weekend to honor her legacy.
Portia White, hailing from Nova Scotia, captivated audiences in the 1940s with her remarkable voice. She made her concert debut in Toronto in 1941 and went on to perform classical European music and African American spirituals around the world. Despite facing racism and discrimination, White’s talent shone through, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards.
The opera, composed and conducted by Sean Mayes, aims to bring attention to White’s significant contributions to music and highlight the impact of Black artistry. It combines elements of romanticism, baroque, R&B, rap, spoken word, gospel, and neo-soul to create a unique and powerful production.
Portia White’s niece, Sheila White, expressed her pride in her aunt’s enduring legacy, emphasizing the importance of keeping her memory alive. While White received recognition during her lifetime and posthumously, the opera serves as a special tribute to her unparalleled talent and influence.
The production delves into White’s life, exploring pivotal moments and struggles she faced, including grief, illness, and the racism she encountered during her performances. By portraying White’s journey through the lens of her death, the opera aims to shed light on her experiences and the challenges she overcame as a pioneering Black Canadian singer.
The lead creator, stage director, and librettist Haui described the opera as a fictitious work inspired by real events, offering a unique perspective on White’s life and legacy. Through fragmented memories and spiritual exploration, the production delves into White’s quest for understanding and ascension, painting a vivid picture of her remarkable journey.
Rock singer SATE, who portrays White’s Soul character, emphasized the responsibility of the performers to fill in the gaps in White’s recorded history and bring her story to life for audiences. By delving into White’s legacy and the significance of the opera dedicated to her, the production aims to spark curiosity and appreciation for her groundbreaking contributions to the world of music.
In conclusion, Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White stands as a powerful tribute to a trailblazing artist whose impact transcended boundaries and continues to inspire audiences today. Through music, storytelling, and artistry, the opera celebrates White’s legacy and ensures that her remarkable talent and resilience are never forgotten.