Composer david T. little Unveils Dark, Psychological depths of New Opera, “Black Lodge”
New York, NY – September 17, 2025 – Composer David T. Little’s chilling new opera, Black Lodge, premiered this week at the Prototype Festival in New York City, instantly establishing itself as a critically important work exploring the fractured psyche of a veteran grappling with PTSD and the shadowy forces that haunt his recovery.The opera, a co-commission from Beth Morrison Projects, HERE, and National Sawdust, delves into themes of trauma, memory, and the elusive nature of reality, offering a stark and unsettling theatrical experience.
Black Lodge isn’t simply another opera; it’s a visceral exploration of the invisible wounds of war and the struggle to reintegrate into civilian life. The work resonates powerfully in a moment where veteran mental health is a critical national conversation, and the long-term effects of conflict continue to impact individuals and communities. The opera’s innovative use of sound design and multimedia elements amplifies the psychological tension, promising to spark dialog about the complexities of trauma and the challenges of healing.
Little, known for his emotionally charged and often unsettling compositions, collaborated with librettist Royce Vavrek to craft a narrative centered around a soldier named Charlie who seeks treatment at a mysterious, isolated facility. The “Black Lodge” of the title represents both a physical location and a metaphorical space within Charlie’s mind, where fragmented memories and suppressed emotions resurface.
“The opera is about the things that haunt us, the things we try to bury, and the ways in which those things ultimately shape who we are,” Little explained in a recent interview. “Charlie’s journey is a descent into his own subconscious,a confrontation with the demons of his past.”
The production features a cast of compelling performers, led by baritone John Brancy in the role of Charlie. The staging incorporates striking visual elements, including projections and immersive soundscapes, to create a disorienting and claustrophobic atmosphere. Critics have lauded the opera’s bold artistic vision and its unflinching portrayal of psychological distress. Black Lodge runs through January 18, 2025, at St. Ann’s Warehouse in Brooklyn.
