On the evening of Sept. 26, the University of Richmond’s Modlin Center for the Arts will host the world premiere of What Belongs to You, a chamber opera based on the acclaimed debut novel of the same name, by Garth Greenwell. A second performance is scheduled for Sept. 28.

Composed by David T. Little, a Grammy Award-nominated composer and librettist, and directed by renowned choreographer and director Mark Morris, the opera will be performed by tenor Karim Sulayman and the acclaimed ensemble Alarm Will Sound, led by Alan Pierson. The set and costume design are by Maile Okamura, and the lighting design is by Nicole Pearce.

The opera tells the story of an unnamed narrator’s obsession with a hustler named Mitko, and the start of a “long, unstable, and ultimately destructive affair,” said Little. “The story is specific and personal, but the experience Greenwell describes is universal: the search for self and the desire to belong amidst loneliness and enduring heartbreak.”

Paul Brohan, the executive director of the Modlin Center, had previously met Greenwell. When he learned that Pierson, the artistic director and Alarm Will Sound conductor, wanted to turn the book into an opera, many conversations ensued.

“As the project became clearer on their end,” Brohan said, “I talked with them about the world premiere being held at the University of Richmond.”

While Brohan is thrilled that UR is hosting the premiere, he is equally excited about the academic opportunities. “Each of the people on the creative team brings a different perspective of the arts,” Brohan said. “Their willingness to contribute their knowledge and share their experience with students is remarkable.”

The creative team will visit several classes. Among the topics they’ll discuss are organizing recordings and sound, developing new operas, and music entrepreneurship

“It’s all a reflection of an undergraduate liberal arts education,” Brohan said. “These world-renowned artists are investing in our community and in our students.”

The Modlin Center and Boatwright Library have already led a book club discussion with the author and composer. “The discussion was a way for participants to learn about and experience opera in a new way,” Brohan said. The participants will be attending the opera, as well.

What Belongs to You will be performed at the Modlin Center for the Arts on Sept. 26 and 28. For ticket information, please visit the Center’s site.