Story Overview
Grounded show in New York tells the story of a female fighter pilot, referred to simply as the Pilot, who is passionate about her career flying F-16 jets in combat missions. She thrives in the sky, where she feels most alive, enjoying the adrenaline and the sense of freedom that comes with soaring above the world.
However, her life takes a significant turn when she becomes pregnant. Due to her pregnancy, the military reassigns her to a new role operating drones from a remote base in the Nevada desert. Instead of flying high in the sky, she now spends her days in a windowless trailer, staring at a screen and controlling drones thousands of miles away in the Middle East. This shift from the open skies to the confines of the trailer is jarring for the Pilot, who struggles to adjust to her new reality.
As she carries out her missions remotely, the lines between her work and personal life begin to blur. The Pilot finds it increasingly difficult to separate her time spent in the trailer, where she conducts targeted drone strikes, from her life at home with her family. The detachment of drone warfare, where she is physically safe but still engaged in lethal operations, takes a toll on her mental health.
The once-clear distinctions between war and home life start to erode, leading the Pilot into a deep emotional and psychological crisis. She becomes haunted by the images on the screen, the people she targets, and the ethical implications of her actions. Her sense of self begins to disappear as she deals with guilt, isolation, and the disorienting experience of waging war from a distance.
As the story progresses, the Pilot’s internal struggle intensifies, ultimately leading her to confront the profound consequences of her new role. The play shows the experience of a woman who must navigate the tension between her duties as a soldier and her responsibilities as a mother.
Cast Information
Grounded Broadway in theaters in NYC revolves around one character and shows the complex emotional journey of that protagonist. The play, directed by Carrie Cracknell, features the following cast.
- Emily D’Angeloas the Pilot
While Grounded in New York is primarily a one-woman show focusing on the Pilot, the opera adaptation includes a supporting cast of characters in smaller, non-speaking roles or choral parts to enhance the narrative and atmosphere.
Venue Details
The Metropolitan Opera, often referred to simply as “The Met,” is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. Located at Lincoln Center in New York City, it has been a cultural landmark since its opening in 1966. The venue is renowned for its grand architecture, with a seating capacity of approximately 3,800, making it one of the largest opera houses globally.
The Met’s auditorium is known for its exquisite acoustics, ensuring that every note resonates perfectly, whether you’re in the orchestra seats or the highest balcony. The venue features state-of-the-art facilities, including a massive stage accommodating complex set designs and large-scale productions like Grounded show in New York.
Reviews
The opera adaptation of Grounded in New York at The Metropolitan Opera has received a wide range of reviews, reflecting its impact as a contemporary and emotionally charged work. Critics have praised the production for its powerful narrative, innovative staging, and the intense performance of its lead soprano.
Many reviewers have lauded the opera for its emotional depth, with particular emphasis on the harrowing portrayal of the Pilot’s psychological turmoil. The way the story discusses the ethical and personal struggles faced by the protagonist has been described as heartbreaking. The production’s staging, by Hildegard Bechtler, has also been widely praised. Critics have pointed out how the set design and visual elements effectively mirror the Pilot’s internal conflict, using minimalistic yet impactful visuals to represent the confined and isolating world she inhabits.
Music
Grounded for families at The Metropolitan Opera features a musical score composed by Jeanine Tesori, known for her ability to blend contemporary music with emotionally resonant themes. The score is critical to conveying the protagonist’s psychological journey, using a mix of orchestral and electronic elements to reflect the dualities in the Pilot’s life — her past experiences as a fighter pilot and her current reality as a drone operator. Here’s a list of the songs in the play.
- “Takeoff”— Represents the exhilaration and freedom the Pilot feels while flying her jet, full of soaring melodies and vibrant rhythms.
- “Ground Control” — Highlights the transition from sky to ground as the Pilot is reassigned to drone operations, marked by a more restrained and mechanical sound.
- “The Screen”— Depicts the monotony and isolation of the Pilot’s new role, with repetitive musical patterns.
- “Target Locked”— Accompanies the moments of tension as the Pilot carries out drone strikes, blending urgency with underlying stress.
- “Family Life”— A softer, more lyrical piece that contrasts with the harshness of her work, reflecting the Pilot’s attempts to reconnect with her family.
- “Blurred Lines” — Mirrors the blurring of boundaries between war and home life, using overlapping motifs to convey the Pilot’s growing confusion and anxiety.
- “Descent”— Marks the Pilot’s psychological decline, with dissonant harmonies and melodies representing her anxious state of mind.
- “The Fallout”— A climactic piece capturing the Pilot’s emotional breakdown, with a mix of chaotic and mournful tones.
- “Final Flight” — The concluding piece, reflecting the Pilot’s ultimate confrontation with the consequences of her actions, combining a somber mood with moments of resolution.
Awards
Grounded, as an opera, has gathered significant attention for its powerful storytelling and innovative adaptation of the original play. Here are a few awards won by Grounded.
- Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Solo Show: The original play Grounded, written by George Brant, won the Lucille Lortel Award for Outstanding Solo Show.
- Fringe First Award: Groundedreceived the Fringe First Award at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, celebrating the best new writing that premiered at the festival.
Run Length and Schedule
Grounded show today in NYC has a typical run length of about 90 minutes and is presented without an intermission. The play at The Metropolitan Opera will be presented from September 23, 2024, marking the opening of the 2024–25 season. It is scheduled to run for a series of performances till October 19, 2024.
Weekly Schedule
- Wednesday:7:30 PM
- Friday:8:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
The Metropolitan Opera offers a variety of food and beverage options both within the venue and in the surrounding area. Located inside The Met, the Grand Tier offers fine dining with a menu featuring contemporary American cuisine. There are several bars within the venue offering a range of beverages, including wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options. Light snacks and pastries are also available.
