Opera Vera’s debut production, To Life Beyond, features two powerful vocal cycles that confront the mystery of death — not with fear, but with transcendent beauty.

Shostakovich’s Seven Romances on Poems of Alexander Blok (Op. 127), a 20th-century masterpiece, is paired with Beggar’s Belief by contemporary British composer Adam Gorb. Though composed decades apart, both works trace a journey through darkness, grief, and existential reflection. Yet each culminates in luminous serenity, presenting death not as an end, but as a transformation — a passage toward peace, stillness, and spiritual renewal.

This emotionally rich program offers a profound meditation on mortality, faith, memory, and grace.

The performance features the exquisite talents of Soprano Yuliya Trishkeu, whose voice brings a radiant depth to these poignant works. She is accompanied by pianist and music director James Gillett, whose sensitive interpretation guides the emotional arc of the program. The ensemble is completed by the evocative strings of violinist Mollie Wrafter and cellist Rebekah Clarke, whose performances weave a rich tapestry of sound and meaning.

Join Opera Vera for an unforgettable evening of music that embraces life’s ultimate mystery with courage, beauty, and faith.