DVT Divergence Vocal Theater

Exciting developments on the Everything Misha front!
 This month, I’m embarking on a major recording project a KUFH: Elliot Cole’s setting of my libretto, Selkie, a sea tale. The work is scored for voice, piano and cello, and pianist Kyle Evans and cellist Patrick Moore are joining me on the recording; expect a release party in the fall of 2012! I’m also spearheading the direction and production of a music video to accompany one of the songs from Selkie, with the first filming sessions in Houston and Portland, Oregon this month. In February, I’m singing with The Foundation for Modern Music at the Rothko Chapel, and I’m joining Lone Star College Montgomery’s choral department for an artist residency. In June, Klytemnestra (composer Dominick DiOrio’s setting of my libretto) remounts at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston, and I have exciting collaborations with composers Thomas Helton and George Heathco on the horizon.

More transformation is afoot!: most of you know that a over a year ago, I set out on an experimental journey to create a new arts space for my collaborative music performance work and for multi-artists in the Houston area. Divergence Music & Arts at Spring St Studios was born. The space embodied my vision for a non-traditional, site-specific performance environment, and it embraced the funky, industrial architecture of Spring St Studios. I produced two major chamber opera-theater works in the space: Klytemnestra, my collaboration with composer Dominick DiOrio; and Autumn Soiree, an evening of art song, opera, new music, puppetry, poetry and dance. The space served as a facility for several film projects; for events by the Feldenkrais Center of Houston and AIDS Foundation Houston; for performances by composers Chris Becker and Thomas Helton; for the premiere performance of the Houston Heights Orchestra; and for the world premier performances of theater artist Brandy Holmes’ devised theater work.

Drum roll!: I’m thrilled to announce Starke Naked Theatre Company, Mildred’s Umbrella Theatre Company, and The Classical Theatre Company’s transition into the roles of directors and proprietors of the space. I’m grateful to have been a part of launching a new performance space in Houston, and I believe these three outstanding companies will infuse the space with their own vision, and bring continued artistic vitality to the venue under its new name, Studio 101 at Spring Street Studios.

These are exciting times for me and for Houston arts. I’m a transformational artist at heart, and I embrace the journey of my creative process, wherever that may lead. In the coming year you’ll hear about the launch of Misha Penton Performance as well as the continued growth of Divergence Vocal Theater. I’m always developing new pieces, and I continue to work project to project, so I’ll keep you posted! 

M