Art and policy intersect as the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs and The Minnesota Opera co-host a panel discussion inspired by The Minnesota Opera's upcoming production of Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man. A panel of experts in public policy, the arts, and medicine will use the opera as a jumping off point for a discussion of public attitudes and public policy toward disabilities throughout the decades. This free event will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, at the Humphrey Institute, 301 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis. Advance registration is required by calling (612) 342-1611.
Opera commentator Robert Marx will moderate "The Elephant Man: A Conversation on Disability, Policy, and Opera," a panel discussion that will feature former Senator David F. Durenberger, National Institute of Health policy chair; Minnesota State House Democratic Leader Matt Entenza; Humphrey Institute Professor Nancy N. Eustis; composer Laurent Petitgirard; Kathryn A. Stolp, chair of Mayo Clinic's Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation program; and John Tschida, vice president of public affairs and research at Courage Center.
Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man is a new opera by French composer Laurent Petitgirard. Like the David Lynch film, it tells the real-life story of Joseph Merrick, who in the 1880s became a celebrity charity case while his debilitating condition stumped his medical experts. The opera delves into his experiences and his interaction with the community and his doctors.
The Minnesota Opera presents the American premiere of Joseph Merrick, the Elephant Man May 13-21 at Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.mnopera.org or call (651) 224-4222. |
