Composer Missy Mazzoli and librettist Royce Vavrek follow their hit opera Breaking the Waves with a thriller about the seductive power of cults and charismatic leaders in a divided nation. Co-commissioned and co-produced with Opera Philadelphia, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Norwegian National Opera, The Listeners examines the lengths to which we, as Americans, are willing to go to find a sense of place and purpose, and the way in which confident, charming leaders can exploit these needs to their own ends. Prior to the American premiere at Opera Philadelphia in September 2024 and Lyric Opera of Chicago in March 2025, members of the creative team will discuss their creative process, and excerpts will be performed.