The Sound of Identity

The Sound of Identity is an award-worthy documentary which serves as a crystalline reminder that although a performer is influenced by their past and present identities and experiences; the portrayal of a role is not constrained by these. Director, James Kicklighter, not only succeeds but is also victorious in capturing Lucia Lucas' portrayal of Don Giovanni at the Tulsa Opera. The storytelling successfully navigates that Ms. Lucas is a transgender woman without eclipsing that she is also a baritone who wields a gravity capable of drawing her audience to the very epicenter of emotion. In fact, it is more to the point to say Ms. Lucas is a world class operatic baritone who also happens to be a transgender woman. Given her performance, I am convinced Ms. Lucas could portray absolutely any role within her vocal range. Throughout the film, she is alternately powerful and genuinely vulnerable as she prepares for and promotes the production of Don Giovanni. She brings a refreshing perspective to the role of a quintessential rake and womanizer as he rushes headlong toward his own destruction. Particularly endearing in this film are the interactions between Ms. Lucas and Tulsa's Artistic Director, Tobias Picker. Their conversations show a tender and growing friendship in their work together to make history as the Tulsa Opera prepares for Ms. Lucas' American operatic debut as a transgender woman. Mr. Kicklighter is triumphant in depicting the journey without objectifying. I highly recommend and, if I could, would give far more than 10-stars!