Truman & Nancy

World Premiere of Truman and Nancy: A One-Act Opera Exploring Truman Capote’s Haunted Legacy

On November 15 & 16, 2024, the world premiere of Truman and Nancy, a captivating and poignant one-act opera by renowned composer William Zeffiro, will take the stage at the BARN OPERA House in Brandon, Vermont. Based on the graphic novel Capote in Kansas by Ande Parks, this lyrical and thought-provoking work brings to life the haunting journey of Truman Capote as he grapples with his magnum opus, In Cold Blood, and is confronted by the spirit of Nancy Clutter, one of the murder victims immortalized in his groundbreaking true crime novel.

At its core, Truman and Nancy explores profound themes of legacy, family relationships, and the question of what is truly important to leave behind when we die. As Capote contemplates his artistic choices and the impact of his work, the opera challenges audiences to reflect on the human stories behind the fame and sensationalism, and the lasting significance of the connections we make during our lives.

The evening’s event will be presented in three parts, offering audiences an immersive experience that explores the multi-faceted legacy of Capote’s work:

1. Conversation with Actress Brenda Currin: The evening begins with a special conversation featuring Brenda Currin, the actress who portrayed Nancy Clutter in the 1967 film In Cold Blood. Currin will share personal stories from her time filming on location in Holcomb, Kansas, at the Clutter family home, as well as her unforgettable experience meeting Truman Capote personally. Her reflections will provide a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of the film and its deep connection to the real-life events.

2. Presentation with Ande Parks: Next, Ande Parks, the graphic artist behind Capote in Kansas, will offer an engaging presentation on the process of creating a graphic novel and the artistic journey that transformed his work into an opera. This segment will give the audience insight into how visual storytelling merges with the operatic medium, culminating in a deeper understanding of the creative forces behind Truman and Nancy.

3. World Premiere of “Truman and Nancy”: The evening concludes with the world premiere of Truman and Nancy, a one-act opera by composer and lyricist William Zeffiro. The opera delves deep into Capote’s emotional turmoil as he wrestles with the moral complexities of his work. The appearance of Nancy’s spirit forces Capote to confront not only the tragedy of her death but also his own role in making her story famous. Throughout the opera, themes of legacy and what we leave behind are woven into the narrative, inviting audiences to reflect on the relationships we build in life and the memories that endure beyond our time.

Zeffiro’s beautifully introspective score reflects the emotional depth and complexity of Capote’s internal struggle, capturing both the beauty and melancholy of life, memory, and art. This lyrical and poignant opera promises to leave audiences contemplating the delicate balance between fame, grief, and the enduring human need for connection.