La Passion de Simone
A Musical Journey in 15 Stations.
Curtis Opera Theatre and Curtis New Music Ensemble present La Passion de Simone, a mesmerizing meditation on faith, sacrifice, and resistance by Finnish composer Kaija Saariaho and librettist Amin Maalouf. Subtitled “A Musical Journey in 15 Stations,” this opera-oratorio explores the life and writings of Simone Weil, the radical French philosopher and activist whose pursuit of justice shaped 20th-century thought.
Directed by Marcus Shields and conducted by Marc Lowenstein, the production features a stellar vocal cast alongside the contemporary talents of Curtis New Music Ensemble. Inspired by the Baroque Passion Play, this powerful requiem unfolds through a soprano narrator, guiding audiences through Weil’s philosophical and spiritual journey. A stunning fusion of music, poetry, and theater, La Passion de Simone offers an unforgettable portrait of a fearless thinker who challenged the limits of thought and action in her quest for truth.
Please note programs and artists are subject to change.
Program
| SAARIAHO | La Passion de Simone |
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Artists
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Marc Lowenstein Conductor
Enjoying a rich and vibrant genre-crossing conducting career, Marc Lowenstein’s work has been described as an “assured conductor” by the New York Times and “awe-inspiring” by the New Yorker.
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Marcus Shields Stage Director
Marcus Shields is an artist working in theater and new media. Learn more
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Curtis Opera Theatre
Through visionary productions, bold concepts, and compelling narratives, the artists of Curtis Opera Theatre prepare to become stars of the world stage. The combination of key elements of artistry—music, acting, singing, and design—allows these student-artists to create a lasting connection with audiences.
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Curtis New Music Ensemble
Curtis New Music Ensemble (formerly Ensemble 20/21) features compelling repertoire from the 20th and 21st centuries. With bold collaborations and striking productions, Curtis New Music Ensemble embraces the cutting edge of contemporary classical music through the highest level of artistry.
Special Thanks
Curtis Opera Theatre is generously supported by the Ernestine Bacon Cairns Trust and the Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation.
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- Date Feb 28, 2026
- Time 2:00 p.m.
- Location Mainstage Theater, Philadelphia Film Center
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Single tickets available in May.
