Having Guests for Dinner
One act dark comedy for three singers and chamber symphony (1/picc.1.1.1-0.0.0.0-pno-1.1.1.1.1)
Libretto by Robert E. Feng
70’ / 15’ [one-scene version]
Commissioned by /kor/ productions
Having Guests for Dinner serves up a delightful and dark comedy about interpersonal connection, and cannibalism in the modern world. When Marcus and Laura arrive at their friend's coworker's house for a dinner party, things take an unexpected turn for the macabre. Over the course of the dinner, the couple becomes increasingly suspicious that their elegant host, Christoph, is actually a cannibal. Their suspicions get the best of them, and they resolve to find out the truth. However, curious guests make the best food!
premiere of the one-scene version with New Opera West
One-scene premiere: New Opera West - June 17, 2020
Livestream
Laura - Janet Szepei Todd
Marcus - Edmond Rodriguez
Christoph - Anthony Moreno
Mark Lanz Weiser, piano and direction
to rent score and parts, please fill out this form to receive a quote
excerpts from the full-length premiere with Hillman Opera
Full-length premiere: Hillman Opera - February 17, 2024
SUNY Fredonia, Rosch Recital Hall
Western New York Chamber Orchestra
Laura - Mia Mandeneau
Marcus - Dan Novak
Christoph - Patrick Connelly
Glen Cortese, conductor
Julie Newell, director
performance history
-April 13, 2025 - Central Washington University Opera - Ellensburg, WA
-April 12, 2025 - Central Washington University Opera - Ellensburg, WA
-October 13, 2024 - Central Washington University Opera - Ellensburg, WA
-February 17, 2024 - Hillman Opera and Western New York Chamber Orchestra - Fredonia, NY
-October 28, 2022 - New Opera West - Los Angeles, CA
-November 14, 2021 - Hartford Opera Theater - Hartford, CT
-June 17, 2020 - New Opera West - Los Angeles, CA