Matthew Recio's The Puppy Episode
Presented by Northwestern University Opera Theater
Thursday, November 19, 2026 at 7:30pm
Ryan Opera Theater
Joachim Schamberger, director; Yelisey (Eli) Zelman, conductor; members of the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra
With music by Matthew Recio and a libretto by Royce Vavrek (Dog Days, Proving Up), The Puppy Episode follows three characters’ coming out journeys during a time when media didn’t portray the queer experience. High schooler Gil realizes he has feelings for his best friend Clay. Louise, a married woman, regrets not having explored her queer identity more fully. Phyllis, a widow and grandmother living with dementia, wonders what might have been if she had been more honest with herself. When a popular series airs television’s first coming out story, this new public representation leads each character to soul-searching revelations.
Tickets are $18 for the general public and $8 for students with valid ID.
Buy TicketsShirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater
Address
Bienen School of Music
70 Arts Circle Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
United States
About
Located in the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, this theater is a versatile space for intimate opera performances and recitals. Featuring double-height ceilings and expansive windows showcasing views of Lake Michigan, the room seats 163.
Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater
Address
Bienen School of Music
70 Arts Circle Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
United States
About
Located in the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, this theater is a versatile space for intimate opera performances and recitals. Featuring double-height ceilings and expansive windows showcasing views of Lake Michigan, the room seats 163.
Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater
Address
Bienen School of Music
70 Arts Circle Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
United States
About
Located in the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, this theater is a versatile space for intimate opera performances and recitals. Featuring double-height ceilings and expansive windows showcasing views of Lake Michigan, the room seats 163.
Shirley Welsh Ryan Opera Theater
Address
Bienen School of Music
70 Arts Circle Drive
Evanston, IL 60208
United States
About
Located in the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Center for the Musical Arts, this theater is a versatile space for intimate opera performances and recitals. Featuring double-height ceilings and expansive windows showcasing views of Lake Michigan, the room seats 163.
