STADIUM OPERA consisted of two seasons of grand opera presented in CLEVELAND MUNICIPAL STADIUM during its first 2 years, before the CLEVELAND INDIANS provided the facility with a primary tenant. The first season was sponsored by the CLEVELAND PRESS from 28 July-2 Aug. 1931, while the second was organized by scenic designer Laurence Higgins from 29 June-10 July 1932. Featured in the latter season were the world premiere of Tom-Tom by Shirley Graham, a young black composer from Oberlin College, and the appearance of Jules Bledsoe as Amonasro in the company's final performance of Aida, the first time the role was sung by an AFRICAN AMERICAN in this country.
An advertisement for Stadium Opera Week held at Cleveland Municipal Stadium, July 1931. Cleveland Press Collection, CSU Archives.
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