PROGRAM NOTE

On September 26, 1983, while on duty at a Soviet early-warning bunker, Lieutenant Colonel Stanislav Petrov faced a momentous decision when the system falsely indicated an incoming U.S. nuclear missile strike. Despite immense pressure and the protocol dictating that Petrov report the alert, which would have certainly resulted in a full-fledged nuclear attack on the U.S., Petrov questioned the system’s reliability and classified the incident as a false alarm, trusting his instincts over blind adherence to procedure.

This short opera explores a pivotal moment that could have altered the course of humanity. Stanislav Petrov’s calm demeanor, critical thinking, and moral courage averted a potential nuclear catastrophe. The opera immerses the audience in Petrov’s mind as he considers all possible outcomes. It reminds us that while we cannot choose external circumstances, we can decide how to respond to them.

This opera has a run time of 15 minutes and will be preceded by a brief conversation about Mutually Assured Destruction and the dangers of nuclear arms. This workshop concert will showcase a semi-staged version of the opera. Audience members will have the chance to offer feedback via a questionnaire, during a feedback session, or during the reception that follows the event.

Note: At 1:30, the Wende’s Chief Curator, Joes Segal, will be giving a tour of the museum’s current exhibits and offering guests a behind-the-scenes look at their archives. Immerse yourself in the subject before attending the show.

An ADA-accessible entrance to the Glorya Kaufman Community Center is available through the gate from the parking lot at 10858 Culver Blvd.

This performance is made possible in part by the City of Culver City and its Cultural Affairs Commission, with support from Sony Pictures Entertainment, and by the Office of Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.