Detroit Opera invites audiences to experience Highway 1, USA by William Grant Still and Down in the Valley by Kurt Weill — two intimate works that explore love, ambition, and belonging through the lens of the American experience.

Composed in the 1940s, Still’s Highway 1, USA tells the story of ordinary people striving for the “American dream.” With a rich and engaging musical voice, Still celebrates the Black experience and highlights how African American culture shapes the sound of our national identity. This production is presented in partnership with LA Opera.

Weill’s Down in the Valley, a “folk opera in one act,” was originally written for radio during the same period. Blending traditional American folk tunes with original music, Weill reflects the immigrant search for belonging in their new homeland.

These paired productions offer a moving portrait of American life — both its aspirations and its challenges — through two unique musical perspectives.

Performance Dates:

• Sunday, December 7 at 2:30 PM

• Thursday, December 11 at 7:30 PM

• Saturday, December 13 at 7:30 PM

Tickets on sale now: detroitopera.org
📞 313.237.7464
📍 1526 Broadway St, Detroit

Director: Kaneza Schaal
Conductor: Roberto Kalb