As a student at Roosevelt University, opera singer and conductor Adrian Dunn was frustrated by what he thought was a lack of awareness surrounding contributions black people have made to the world of classical music. So in response, he helped form Roosevelt’s Legacy Project: A Celebration of Black Music—an annual concert that pays tribute to black composers. This week, Dunn’s latest project premieres in Chicago. Hopera: A Fallen Hero blends hip hop and opera to tell the story of a young man growing up on the south side of Chicago detailing the challenges he and his community face.

On stage:
Hopera: A Fallen Hero
Premieres Thursday, November 12
DuSable Museum of African American History