The 2021-2022 Season opens with the one-act contemporary opera, Scalia/Ginsburg: an Opera by Derrick Wang presented in partnership with the Clinton Foundation at the Clinton Presidential Center in Little Rock. The opera features the seemingly unlikely friendship between the late Associate Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia. Although their interpretations of the Constitution could vary widely, the justices shared a deep love of opera.

The opera’s theme, “We are different, we are one” reminds the audience that we all have more in common with each other than we think. 

Starring local favorite artists Matthew Tatus and Shannon Rookey in the title roles, audiences should be prepared for a romping good time inspired by judicial opinions with diverse operatic influences. The role of the Commentator is performed by lyric bass Michael Colman who has played the role numerous times including most recently at the Chautauqua Opera in New York. 

Scalia/Ginsburg is directed by Ella Marchment with music direction by Geoffrey Robson featuring a chamber septet from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra.

Performance Times:

(Masks must be worn by anyone entering the Clinton Presidential Center. Proof of vaccination is required for ALL to enter the center.) Updated 8/9/2021

Thursday, August 26 – 7:30 pm (Cash Bar)

Friday, August 27 – 7:30 pm (Opening Night Celebration)

Saturday, August 28 – 2:30 pm

Saturday, August 28 – 7:30 pm (Cash Bar)

Sunday, August 29 – 2:30 pm

*Scalia/Ginsburg is presented by special arrangement with Consequent Music

Due to the pandemic all shows are subject to change.

• We encourage those attending any performance to follow the current health care guidelines. OITR will continue to share information as it develops. We will also share updates on the Clinton Foundation and Presidential Center’s requirements.

UPDATE: With concern for the health and safety of our visitors, staff, and volunteers, the Clinton Presidential Center has implemented COVID-19 safety protocols. (Updated 8/9/2021)

• • Anyone entering the facility must wear a mask while indoors. Masks may be lowered for eating and drinking, but are otherwise required to be worn. Masks must completely cover the nose and mouth and must not contain a ventilation valve or vent. 
  •  Anyone entering the facility must be fully vaccinated and show proof of vaccination (physical copy or photograph thereof). Those who are unable to produce proof of full vaccination will not be permitted to enter the facility. “Fully vaccinated” means at least 14 days after your final dose of an FDA authorized COVID-19 vaccine.
  • Children are also included in the fully vaccinated policy. To clarify, children under the age of 12 years-old are not permitted to enter the building. Children 12 years-old and older may enter the building if they have been fully vaccinated and have proof of vaccination.

Based upon guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, anyone entering the Clinton Presidential Center must wear a mask while indoors, regardless of COVID-19 vaccination status. (Clinton Presidential Center statement, July 29, 2021)