The Dallas Opera will present the Dallas Opera Perspectives: “When Art and Religion Collide,” a free, in-depth exploration of the role of religion in the creation of both visual and performing arts, including works like The Dallas Opera’s second production of the 2014-2015 Season, Salome by Richard Strauss. The panel will also explore how this relationship is evolving in an increasingly interactive, yet balkanized and secular world.

This lively discussion will take place in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church. It will be moderated by Dr. Christopher Anderson, an award-winning author and Associate Professor of Sacred Music at the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. The panel will consist of three influential leaders representing different branches of the arts: Maxwell Anderson, the Eugene McDermott Director of the Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas Theater Center Artistic Director Kevin Moriarty and Dallas Opera General Director and CEO Keith Cerny.

The evening will conclude with an open Q&A with members of the audience. No question is too controversial.