Missy Mazzoli, along with librettist Royce Vavrek, crafted the opera “The Listeners” as a response to the rise of charismatic leaders and the allure of belonging to a group during turbulent times, such as when Donald Trump was running for president. The opera delves into themes of psychological manipulation, following a school teacher who becomes enamored with a group of like-minded individuals enthralled by a leader named Paul Devon. Through this narrative, Mazzoli and Vavrek explore the human longing for connection and the sense of belonging, particularly in the face of loneliness and isolation.
“The Listeners” made its U.S. premiere at the Academy of Music in Philadelphia, drawing in a diverse audience due to Opera Philadelphia’s initiative to offer tickets at a reduced price, which increased accessibility to new attendees. The production, filled with provocative language and intense scenes, sparked a notable engagement from the audience, eliciting laughter, applause, and reactions not seen during its initial performances in Norway.
The development of “The Listeners” stemmed from Mazzoli’s collaboration with Vavrek, with inspiration drawn from real-life cult incidents like those depicted in documentaries such as “Wild Wild Country” and “Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief.” The opera features a large cast of 22 singers and explores the nuances of human vulnerability and the search for community among individuals who may feel marginalized or lost.
Following its Philadelphia premiere, “The Listeners” is set to have additional showings in Germany and Chicago, showcasing its universal themes to a broader audience. Mazzoli and Vavrek are also working on other projects, including an opera based on George Saunders’ novel “Lincoln in the Bardo” and a production addressing the opioid crisis titled “The Galloping Cure.”
As the creative process forges ahead, Vavrek reflects on the beauty of sharing an imagined world with audiences, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling in connecting individuals and fostering a deeper understanding of complex human experiences.