Katie: The Strongest of the Strong
Upcoming Dates
An opera for all Katie: The Strongest of the Strong
Opera in the Neighborhoods returns for both school and public performances in the 2025/26 Season with Katie: The Strongest of the Strong. This powerful opera for young audiences is inspired by the true story of Katie Sandwina, a circus strongwoman who – beyond earning the title “the strongest woman in the world," and being a wife and mother – also helped to lead the women’s suffrage movement in the early 1900s. With an all-female cast, Katie: The Strongest of the Strong is a wonderful way to introduce young people to opera and the important history of women’s rights.
- Language: Performed in English
- Location: Kennedy King College
- Composer: Faye Chiao
- Librettist: Anton Dudley
Artists
Katie (Brumbach) Sandwina, Lauren Ingebrigtsen
Marina, Katy Lindhart
Bebe Barbelle, Hillary Watkins
Beryl Barbelle, Uma Singh
Bernice Barbelle, Miya Higashiyama
Music Director, Dr. Charlene Lotz
Director, Denise Yvette Serna
Set and Prop Designer, Austin Abernathy
Costume Designer, Clair Hummel
Assistant Director, Paige Dirkes-Jacks
Stage Manager, Shelby Krarup
Tour Manager, Mari DeOleo
Backstage Pass Designer, Robert Johnson
Backstage Pass!
The Backstage Pass! is a family-friendly introduction to the world of opera and this production of Katie: The Strongest of the Strong. Filled with insights, information, and activities — the Backstage Pass! is a wonderful way to enhance your performance experience.
Credits
Commissioned by Houston Grand Opera. Premiered by the Houston Grand Opera in October 2020.