Park City Opera will present Aaron Copland's "The Tender Land" on July 18 and 19, 2026, at Temple Har Shalom. The upcoming production serves as a musical celebration of America's 250th anniversary, featuring an intimate indoor-outdoor performance setting alongside themed culinary and musical elements.
Themed Summer Celebrations
The production of "The Tender Land" is designed to reflect the open-prairie spirit of the opera's setting. According to Park City Opera, the performances will take place at Temple Har Shalom, utilizing a relaxed indoor-outdoor environment that allows the chamber orchestra and singers to perform just feet away from the audience members.
To coincide with the summer season and the United States' 250th anniversary, the event will feature several themed amenities. Attendees can enjoy complimentary American light bites prepared by Chef Galen Zamarra. The opera also features a cash bar offering a specialty cocktail provided by Alpine Distillery.
Musical and Culinary Features
In addition to the culinary offerings, live music will complement the operatic performance. The Park City Opera announced that folk music and fiddle performances by Kate MacLeod and Dylan Schert will be part of the event experience.
The scheduled performances are set for 5:00 PM on both Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Story and Production Details
Copland's "The Tender Land" is a coming-of-age story set against the landscapes of the American West. The narrative follows a young woman named Laurie as she approaches her high school graduation. The plot explores themes of independence, longing, and resilience as the arrival of an outsider prompts Laurie to consider a life beyond her family's farm.
The production is performed in English and has a total running time of approximately two hours.
Cast of Performers
The cast for the July performances includes Rachel Kobernick performing the role of Laurie on Saturday, July 18, and Lena Goldstein performing the same role on Sunday, July 19. Other members of the cast include David Silvano as Martin, Laura Zahn as Ma Moss, and Erik Danielson as Grandpa Moss.
The ensemble also features Joseph O'Shea as Top, Sam Plumb as Mr. Splinters, Emily Hubert as Beth, Ellie Niver as Mrs. Jenks, Akshay Ghiya as Mr. Jenks, Chelsea Alexandra as Mrs. Splinters, and Jacob Kenison as Neighbor.
Creative and Technical Team
The creative team behind the production is led by conductor Benjamin Beckman, who also serves as the Artistic Director for Park Century Opera. The production is directed by Lisl Wangermann and features scenic design by Hayley E. Wallenfeldt.
Additional technical and production staff includes Caitlin Denney-Turner as Stage Manager and Julian Kel in a creative capacity.
Digital Storytelling Features
For those looking to engage with the opera prior to the live performance, Park City Opera has released a narrated playlist on Spotify. The playlist is curated by Artistic Director and Conductor Benjamin Beckman and is designed to guide listeners through the story of Laurie scene by scene.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the July 18 and 19 performances are available through the Park City Opera website.
