Revolutionary Opera to Debut in Omaha

May 19th, 2025

Sensorium Ex is an ambitious new opera that synthesizes artificial intelligence, disability, and the arts in a groundbreaking and innovative artistic work. This visionary production pushes the boundaries of what it means to have a voice, paving the way for future artists with disabilities. Paola Prestini, co-producer, member of the creative team and composer of Sensorium Ex says it took some time to bring this opera to life.

Sensorium Ex has pushed boundaries and opened doors to be a show that promotes inclusivity and allows performers with disabilities to have a place on the stage. With unique aspects involved with this Opera, such as having a non-verbal lead, Music Director of Sensorium Ex, Elizabeth Askren, expresses her honor to be part of such a revolutionary project, adding her own discoveries of what it means to conduct an opera.

Asken describes the act of this opera as a beautiful dance of partnership and collaboration between the cast on stage and the orchestra. The innovation of this new partnership shows potential to evolve opera in a positive way. 

Both Prestini and Askren express deep gratitude to the Common Senses Festival and the city of Omaha, for giving this new opera a stage. Sensorium Ex will be making its world debut during the Common Senses Festival May 22-25 at the Sapp Fieldhouse located on the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Dodge campus. Tickets and additional details are available at commonsensesfestival.com

Stock Music provided by AG_Music, from Pond5