As part of Lawrence’s annual Classics Week celebration, Joe Goodkin brings his folk opera retelling of “The Odyssey” to Harper Hall Tuesday, April 19 at 8:15 p.m. Part lecture, part musical and part interactive discussion, the performance is free and open to the public.
Combining his background in writing and performing original rock music with a degree in classics, Goodkin deconstructs the story of “The Odyssey” in a 30-minute long composition featuring 24 original songs. The performance, featuring only an acoustic guitar and voice, echoes the spirit of the ancient Greek bards who originally told the epic stories of Odysseus and the heroes of the Trojan War.
Since 2003, Goodkin has performed the folk opera scores of times across the country. He is a three-time American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers award recipient for his work.
About Lawrence University
Founded in 1847, Lawrence University uniquely integrates a college of liberal arts and sciences with a nationally recognized conservatory of music, both devoted exclusively to undergraduate education. It was selected for inclusion in the book “Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About College” and Fiske’s Guide to Colleges 2016. Engaged learning, the development of multiple interests and community outreach are central to the Lawrence experience. Lawrence draws its 1,500 students from nearly every state and more than 50 countries.
