Sally Ride Opera Workshop

Experience the thrilling life of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space, in operatic form at this workshop presentation of a new work by composer Dana Kaufman and writer Aiden K. Feltkamp. Told through the lens of Sally’s life partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, the opera focuses on Sally’s passions in life and how her time in the spotlight made her question everything she valued.Sally Ride follows the real life story of the first American woman and the first LGBTQ+ person to go to space. Narrated by her life partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, the opera illuminates Sally’s intense drive to succeed and her innate need for privacy, two elements which constantly clash as she rises through the ranks of NASA. We watch as Sally gets accepted into NASA, goes into space, fights with the misogynistic press, chooses to start a life together with Tam, and eventually leaves NASA to pursue the life she truly wants as a science educator for young girls. Again and again, Sally must decide to either follow the path society expects for her or create her own way. Sally Ride explores the thrills, the disappointments, the humor, and the secrets of Sally’s life, drawing the audience along for a night of triumph and personal exploration. The opera’s accessible music and story will appeal to audiences of all ages, but will especially consider young girls with an interest in STEM.This workshop concert will showcase scenes from Sally Ride. Composer Dana Kaufman and librettist Aiden K. Feltkamp will collaborate with Dr. Ashley Walters (conductor and music director) and Kimberly Guerrero (stage director) to present these segments of the opera. Dr. Tam O’Shaughnessy, Sally’s life partner and co-founder of the San Diego-based organization Sally Ride Science (SRS), is also a consultant on the opera. Audience members will have the chance to offer feedback anonymously via questionnaire.