Union Avenue Opera presents a double bill, which will delve into the intricate interplay between performance and reality through two contrasting yet thematically linked works.

Josephine brings the story of legendary entertainer, civil rights icon and St. Louis native Josephine Baker to life, capturing her meteoric rise to international stardom along with the personal challenges she faced offstage. With a sweeping and emotionally charged score, composer-librettist Tom Cipullo paints a vivid portrait of a trailblazing artist navigating a world that wasn’t always ready for her.

In contrast, Ruggero Leoncavallo’s Pagliacci plunges audiences into the raw, emotional world of a traveling commedia troupe, where art and reality collide in a tragic tale of jealousy, betrayal and revenge. With its unforgettable aria, “Vesti la giubba,” and searing verismo drama, Pagliacci remains one of opera’s most enduring and explosive masterpieces.

Don’t miss this unforgettable night at the opera, where history and heartbreak share the stage.

Josephine will be presented in English with projected English subtitles, and Pagliacci will be presented in Italian with project English subtitles.