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Kentucky Opera addresses community issues through their shows

The Kentucky Opera is one of the oldest opera companies in the country and is entering it's 68th season this year. How they continue to be pioneers in their art.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Opera hosted a free open house at the Brown Theater until 4 p.m. Sunday, June 9.

The Opera is bringing in shows this season to spark conversation.

“We're really interested in connecting what we do on stage to issues that affect us in the community,” Randy Blevins of the Kentucky Opera said.

They're going into their 68th season with a new General Director and many new programs.

“One called awakenings where we have discussions about what's happening on stage and they're centered around themes for each show that the Directors will then be exploring on stage,” says Blevins.

Carmen is a well known opera that shares the story of a promiscuous woman who many feel, get's what’s coming to her at the end. The opera offering an alternate view, 

“Although it doesn't eventually work out for her, but she's using all the resources she can to just survive,” Blevins said.

They're partnering with the Center for Women and Families and Scarlett's Bakery to have conversations about how to help women is exploitative or domestic abuse situations.

“That is the mission of what the arts do, it creates this conversation," Blevins said. "It hopefully entertains, but it also lets you think about things and connect with people  around you that may be dealing with similar issues that you are."

Glory Denied is another show you can expect at the Opera about the longest held prisoner of war in Vietnam. It highlights the very real issues veterans face. Tickets go on sale July 6.

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