Support New American Opera: The Tempest by Joseph Summer, World Staged Premiere

This summer, Teatro Grattacielo is thrilled to present the World Staged Premiere of American composer Joseph Summer’s The Tempest. Taking place on July 16 and 18 at the iconic La MaMa's Ellen Stewart Theater, this groundbreaking production continues our company's rich tradition of transforming literary classics into new operas.

Beyond the stage, this production is a vital thread in the cultural fabric of New York City. We believe opera belongs to everyone, which is why our tickets are kept extremely affordable to remove financial barriers. To ensure a truly welcoming and inclusive environment, we champion a modern, relaxed opera experience: there is no formal dress code, guests are welcome to bring their own soft drinks, and we provide a bilingual website alongside clear supertitles for effortless comprehension.

Your contribution also helps reshape how the arts industry operates. Teatro Grattacielo is proud to be a leader in ethical employment for creatives. Every artist engaged in this production is hired as an official company employee for the duration of the production period—earning fair wages and receiving health benefit contributions. By supporting The Tempest, you are backing an organization that champions equitable workplaces for artists while delivering groundbreaking, highly accessible cultural experiences to New York City.

Your impact:
Fosters Innovation: Supports the world staged premiere of a new American opera.

Breaks Down Barriers: Subsidizes extremely affordable tickets and sustains a highly accessible, relaxed, and bilingual environment for all audiences.
Empowers Artists: Guarantees fair wages and health benefit contributions for the singers, musicians, and creatives bringing this work to life.

Anchors the Arts: Helps sustain live, accessible performance and community engagement in New York City's vibrant Lower East Side.