The relationship between democracy and liberty is complex and ever-evolving. Apollo Chamber Player’s season opener explores this nation’s noble quest to ‘secure the blessings of liberty’ for its citizenry – and where we have fallen tragically short. Legendary actor, activist, and LGBTQIA icon George Takei joins Apollo to tell the story of his family’s forced internment during World War II, as Japanese Americans had their most basic freedoms stripped away in one of democracy’s darkest chapters.

The program also includes the world premiere of a newly adapted commissioned work by one of America’s most celebrated living composers. John Corigliano’s “One Sweet Morning” reflects a post-9/11 aspiration for peace and freedom from war and terror, featuring countertenor John Holiday. And meaningfully, Afghan-born composer Homayoun Sakhi offers a global perspective on the promises and perils of self-government and the eternal quest for liberty.