January 11-14 and 18-21, 2012
Tickets: $45-$65 {Buy Now}

Directed and Libretto by Mark Streshinsky
Score by Clark Suprynowicz

Press Release

The Crucible proudly presents, MACHINE: A world premiere Fire Opera written, conceived and directed for The Crucible stage by Mark Streshinsky, who previously collaborated on Dracul and Firebird. The music of MACHINE is by Clark Suprynowicz who is well known in the Bay area for his Jazz and Rock infused compositions of opera and symphonic work.

Based on a short story by science fiction author Derek J. Goodman, MACHINE is set in a fiery industrial universe in which workers have sold themselves into a lifetime of servitude. When one worker regains his power of self-determination, the story ignites into an explosive brew of escape plots, alliances, and unlikely love interests. This spectacular performance features two opera singers, a rock singer and percussionists that "play" the scaffolding-like set. Visual effects including a molten metal pour, fire performers and industrial artists such as glass blowers and blacksmiths. MACHINE will deliver the kind of awe-inspiring performance that Crucible audiences have come to expect.

Composer Clark Suprynowicz has written a riveting score for this piece that incorporates seven percussionists alongside both classical and rock instrumentalists and directed by noted conductor, Barnaby Palmer. The musicians inhabit the machine and perform as the workers of the factory. Suprynowicz' score reinforces the virile voice of baritone Eugene Brancoveanu who The SF Chronicle calls "extravagantly gifted with unforced charisma, vocal clarity and heft."

Sung in English, MACHINE is a stunning show that takes full advantage of the industrial surroundings of The Crucible's 56,000 square foot education facility.

This project is based on the short story Deus Ex Machina by Derek J. Goodman and is being developed in collaboration with composer Clark Supynowicz and writer/director Mark Streshinsky with support from The Phyllis C. Wattis Foundation, the Kenneth Rainin Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, and the East Bay Community Foundation's Fund for Artists.

Tickets On Sale Now!

January 11-14 and 18-20, 2012
Doors at 7:30pm / Show at 8:30PM
Tickets: $45-$65

Please Note: This is a seated event, no late entry will be permited. This show also contains mature content and situations that may not be suitable for young children.

Closing Night Gala

Saturday, January 21, 2012
Doors at 6:30pm / Show at 8:30PM
Tickets: $150

Join us in your finest evening attire at the Closing Night Gala of MACHINE to celebrate The Crucible's 12th Anniversary. As industrial art and performance art unite, our studio space transforms into a mysterious machine of operatic fire performers, belting baritones and flaming sculptures.

Enjoy fiery cocktails and decadent hors d'oeuvres during our pre-performance reception and after the show, a champagne toast with the cast as we celebrate another innovative year at The Crucible. Gala tickets are partially tax-deductible.

Thank you to our generous event sponsors!

Christopher & Amber-Marie Bently
Warren Breslau & Frances Hellman
Nick & Sloane Morgan
Charles Olson & Yoko Watanabe
Todd Seabold
Eli Weinberger

Event Sponsorship Opportunities

For more information on how you or your company can become a community sponsor of this world-premier event contact Ray Boyle, Development Coordinator, by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by phone at (510) 444-0919 ext. 119

Cast & Crew