Central City Opera Unveils Regional Premiere of "The Knock"

"The Knock," a contemporary opera, is set to make its regional debut at the Central City Opera's 2025 Festival.

Artistic Director Alison Moritz, who also directs the production, shared insights on the narrative: "There are 20 women on stage. We know that one of them is going to receive life-altering news. Ultimately, everyone’s life is transformed."

The opera centers on the wives of military personnel deployed in Iraq, capturing a poignant moment in military life as they anxiously await news of their loved ones. "The Knock" highlights a seldom-seen aspect of military sacrifice.

"The sacrifice does not come from the service member alone; it extends to the entire family," Moritz elaborated.

As the women unite in solidarity, the story intertwines with that of a notification officer. Armando Contreras portrays Lt. Roberto Gonzales, the officer tasked with delivering devastating news.

This marks Contreras's fourth performance in this role. "I spend most of the opera in the car, grappling with the weight of having to deliver such terrible news," he explained.

With a rich history at Central City Opera, Contreras also teaches opera at the University of Northern Colorado. "So many firsts happened for me here. This was my first young artist program and where I made my professional debut," he recalled.

In "The Knock," Contreras experiences a profound transformation as he confronts the emotional burden of his duty. "His perspective on service evolves dramatically. It’s an incredible catharsis—something opera can convey beautifully," Moritz noted.

Set against Colorado's stunning backdrop, the opera incorporates elements from local landmarks, enhancing its narrative depth. "The landscape mirrors an internal journey," Moritz added.

The original score amplifies the emotional intensity, allowing audiences to linger in feelings that might be uncomfortable in everyday life. "That’s where the power of this opera lies," Moritz stated.

This four-century-old art form adeptly conveys a contemporary story, making "The Knock" both impactful and challenging.

As part of this year's Central City Opera Festival, "The Knock" joins two other productions: "The Barber of Seville" and "Once Upon a Mattress." The festival concludes on August 3, 2025.

Tickets and additional information about Central City Opera's 2025 Festival are available online.