Great Performances at the Met opens its new season with The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess, and the show features a local connection. Appearing as the character "Sportin' Life" is Norfolk native Frederick Ballentine who attended the Governors School for the Arts. Ballentine is a recent graduate of Washington National Opera's Domingo-Cafritz Young Artist Program, and the Los Angeles Opera’s Domingo-Colburn-Stein Young Artist Program.
Earlier this year, WHRO FM's Wayla Chambo spoke with Ballentine about his upcoming role.
Listen to the interview.
The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess airs Friday, July 17 at 9 p.m. on WHRO TV 15.
Watch more from Great Performances in our online archive.
About the Production:
This classic American folk opera brings 1920s Charleston to life with a beloved score from George Gershwin in a new production directed by James Robinson. Eric Owens and Angel Blue star in the title roles and David Robertson conducts.