It is rare to see an opera with both so many novelties and so many recommendations as Like awhich made its Santa Barbara debut last weekend at the Lobero Theater.

With minimal decor, two singers and a string quartet, the show reached emotional depths rarely reached by even the most famous grand operas. Evan Bravos as Hannah Before and Ashley Kay Armstrong as Hannah After delivered captivating performances that kept the audience fully engaged throughout the evening. Alexandra Enyart led the singers and string quartet with deliberate intensity, keeping the musical level high even when called upon for action.

The story explores the heartaches and fears of a young person who discovers her gender identity through struggle and against societal expectations, but does so without sacrificing humor or joy. There’s a lot to tell for anyone who’s ever felt isolated or wished they could have things in two seemingly incompatible ways. In fact, if Like a has a moral, it could be that, contrary to popular belief, you can do or be both. Kudos to composer Laura Kaminsky, librettists Mark Campbell and Kimberly Reed, director Amy Hutchison and the entire Opera Santa Barbara team for bringing this vital and captivating piece to our city.