Floyd's OF MICE AND MEN

Austin Opera continues its long-standing commitment to American and English-language opera with Carlisle Floyd’s operatic rendition of John Steinbeck’s iconic novella, Of Mice and Men, foundational support provided by the Georgia B. Lucas Foundation.

Based on John Steinbeck’s novella “Of Mice and Men,” this riveting American opera is a faithful retelling of one of America’s most celebrated works of literature. Carlisle  Floyd vividly captures the lives of the characters, the feel of the era, the bunkhouse, the depressed economy, and Lenny’s tragic story.

Stage director Kristine McIntyre, known for her visually stunning and emotionally rich productions, has directed more than 50 operas throughout the United States at The Metropolitan Opera, Pittsburgh Opera, Arizona Opera, Dallas Opera, and many others. McIntyre’s “canny ability to meld visual and musical elements” will seamlessly allow Floyd’s score and libretto full voice to clearly communicate the work’s central theme — that personal relationship, however tenuous, is far superior to solitary existence.

Of Mice and Men is an important work of theater, literature, film and, of course, opera. Its plea for compassion and hope is as timely now as when John Steinbeck wrote the novella on which the opera is based. Visit our OF MICE AND MEN – COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS page for a complete list of Austin Opera educational activities surrounding this iconic work in partnership with local cultural organizations including the University of Texas Humanities Institute, Blanton Museum of Art, Austin ISD, Round Rock ISD, Austin Public Library Foundation, and the Paramount Theatre. Each partner event will provide a different perspective on Steinbeck’s classic work, and explore its relevance today.

Of Mice and Men features the Austin Opera Chorus and the Austin Opera Orchestra.

An Opera in three acts, sung in English with lyrics projected above the stage.