An opportunity to see a performance inside the Old American Can Factory — a century-old, 130,000-square-foot manufacturing and arts complex by the Gowanus Canal, is being offered by XO Projects this month.

From May 24–27, XO Projects presents the chamber opera “Rural Electrification” in the complex’s “Sanctum.” Elizabeth Brown’s composition for recorded sound, voice and Theremin (Leon Theremin’s analog electronic instrument, whose sound is rampant in old Vincent Price flicks) will be performed by Brown and Stephanie Skaff, against Lothar Osterburg’s video projection.

“Elizabeth’s clear visual ideas for the piece was what ultimately inspired me to collaborate in what was at first started as a purely musical piece,” Osterburg told GO Brooklyn. Brown’s opera explores the effects of the advent of electricity on a young woman living in rural America.

Married since 2004, Osterburg and Brown first partnered on a 12-minute long video, “Watermusic,” in 2005.

“Her music has always inspired me, and my art has been inspirational for her,” said Osterburg. “She is one of my biggest fans!”

“Rural Electrification” will be performed May 24–27 at 8 pm in The Sanctum of The Old American Can Factory (232 Third St. at Third Avenue in Gowanus). Tickets are $15, $10 seniors and students with ID. For reservations and information, e-mail xopnyc@gmail.com.

— Lisa J. Curtis

©2006 Community Newspaper Group