Spring Opera: Later the Same Evening

What happens when ordinary lives quietly intersect over the course of a single evening? Drawn from the evocative paintings of Edward Hopper, Later the Same Evening transforms still images into intimate, overlapping human stories set in mid-century New York. Composed by John Musto with a libretto by Mark Campbell, this American chamber opera has earned national and international recognition for its cinematic structure, lyrical score, and deeply human storytelling.

Since its premiere at the University of Maryland’s Opera Studio, Later the Same Evening has been produced by leading institutions including Wolf Trap Opera, Glimmerglass Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Curtis Institute of Music, Manhattan School of Music, and Juilliard School, among others. Its continued presence on major stages speaks to its unique ability to bridge visual art, music, and drama in a way that feels both timeless and immediate.

We are especially proud to welcome director Doug Clemons, a dynamic force in the Milwaukee arts scene. Known for his work as both a director and actor across companies such as Florentine Opera, Skylight Music Theatre and Milwaukee Opera Theatre, Doug brings a wealth of experience, nuance, and theatrical insight to this production. His ability to draw out layered, truthful performances makes him an ideal collaborator for a work built on subtle connections and emotional depth.

Later the Same Evening invites audiences into a world where stories unfold side by side, revealing how even the smallest moments can resonate far beyond a single night.

Music by John Musto
Libretto by Mark Campbell
Used by arrangement with Songs of Peer, Ltd.

Director: Doug Clemons
Music Director: Joe Hauer
Producer: Aaron Agulay