Aportia Chryptych: A Black Opera for Portia White is a new interdisciplinary work led by multidisciplinary artist Howard J. Davis, Neema Bickersteth and Sean Mayes.
Utilizing theatrical devices in acting, dance, singing and film this show tells the story of Portia White, a Canadian operatic contralto who premiered at the age of 30 in Toronto on Nov. 7, 1941 and became the first Canadian Black concert singer to win international acclaim in the early 20th century.
the piece is currently being created and developed through the generous support of
and through the theatre creators reserve fund recommenders
supported by the National Ballet's of Canada's Open Space Residency Program and the Caravan Farm Theatre National Playwrights Retreat
dramaturgical support from
additional support from
Portia White [Image used courtesy of the estate of Bill and Vivian White Yousuf Karsh / Library and Archives Canada / pa-192783
