For only the second time ever, Cincinnati Opera is presenting George Gershwin’s great American opera "Porgy and Bess" on the Music Hall stage. "Porgy and Bess," based on the novel "Porgy" by American author DuBose Heyward, tells the tragic love story of a disabled beggar and a beautiful drug addict, who live in the Catfish Row neighborhood of Charleston, SC, in the 1920s.

After a murder, Bess’s abusive lover Crown flees the scene, leaving her behind at the mercy of a disapproving community and tempting drug dealer. Porgy, the only one who shows Bess kindness, takes her in and eventually they find happiness together. Bess turns away from the drugs and gradually find acceptance on Catfish Row...until a hurricane and the return of Crown change everyone’s lives forever.

Above all, this opera is about hope, determination and resilience. Here is a sneak preview released by Cincinnati Opera:

Opening night of Porgy and Bess was Saturday, July 20. You can still catch performances this weekend, July 27 and 28. Click here for more information and tickets.

That's just one of many events that ArtsWave and its Circle of African American Leaders for the Arts invite you to enjoy:

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For more information about the Circle of African American Leaders for the Arts, visit ArtsWave.org/CAALA.