Oct. 24 - Oct. 26, 2025
Eklund Opera

Dead Man Walking

Music by Jake Heggie, Libretto by Terrence McNally

Dead Man Walking

“... makes the most concentrated impact of any piece of American music theater since West Side Story ...”—The Guardian

Music by Jake Heggie
Libretto by Terrence McNally
Based on the book by Sister Helen Prejean
Commissioned by the San Francisco Opera

A young couple is brutally killed and the convicted murderer, Joseph De Rocher, sits on death row. Sister Helen Prejean agrees to be his spiritual adviser. As she meets his family, and the families of his victims, she begins questioning every attitude she has about how human beings treat each other. Based on real-life events, Jake Heggie’s music and Terrence McNally’s libretto explore the nature of friendship and forgiveness in profound ways. “Dead Man Walking” is internationally acclaimed as one of the most riveting operas of the 21st century. 

Great repertoire, beautiful scenery, amazing voices and outstanding value—these are the hallmarks of the CU Boulder College of Music Eklund Opera Program. Director Leigh Holman and Music Director Nicholas Carthy bring you the best of classical and contemporary opera.

Remind me

Buying options and discounts

Save 15-20% with season tickets. Available in the Choice 4, Choice 6 and as an Add-On to any other season ticket order. Single ticket discounts available for groups (10+), seniors (65+), youth (K-12) and CU Boulder faculty, staff and students. Learn more

This production contains graphic depictions of sexual assault, murder, execution by lethal injection and intense emotional distress as well as gunshot sounds and strong language.

Your Guide to Macky Auditorium

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Your Guide to Macky Auditorium

Learn about directions, parking, accessibility, directions, and venue guidelines.

PLAN YOUR VISIT
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