Past Event

This event took place on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

See upcoming events

Highways and Valleys – Two American Love Stories

Wednesday, February 18, 2026
7:30 PM

About this event

A double-bill featuring William Grant Still's 'Highway 1, USA' and Kurt Weill's 'Down in the Valley', exploring the American Dream and sacrifice.

What to Expect

  • 1.Plan to arrive early to park and find your seat; the Detroit Opera House is a grand, sometimes busy building, and security lines can take longer.
  • 2.This double bill pairs William Grant Still’s Highway 1, USA with Kurt Weill’s Down in the Valley—listen for the jazz-influenced American sound and the cabaret-like storytelling, and notice how the two works frame the American Dream differently.
  • 3.Dress sharp but comfortable; opera nights lean upscale and most attendees wear smart-casual to formal attire.
  • 4.Concessions, programs, and intermission: grab a drink or snack in the lobby and read the program notes to catch context between pieces.
  • 5.If you’re new to opera, rely on the surtitles and program notes to follow along; focus on the melodies and emotions—the performances are accessible even if you’re not fluent in every lyric.
CategoryMusic
vibe
SeatedUpscalePolishedTraditional
mood
Thought-ProvokingEmotionalSerious
audience
ObserversCreativesLuxury Seekers
Free weekly newsletter

The best of Detroit, every Thursday

Get a hand-picked roundup of upcoming local events delivered to your inbox every Thursday.

  • One email a week, no spam
  • Live music, markets, and more
  • Plan your week ahead in one glance
  • Always free, unsubscribe anytime

We'll never share your email.
Unsubscribe in one click.

Coming up next

This event has ended, see what's coming up next