Chadwick Stokes' new rock opera addresses abortion rights issues

Chadwick Stokes, a musician from Boston, is launching a new rock opera titled "1972." This project reflects his long-standing commitment to activism and social justice, themes he has explored since his days with the band Dispatch. The idea for the rock opera came after an impactful train trip Stokes took in 2008. He traveled across the Great Plains for a concert, which helped shape his views on the struggles faced by many Americans. "It’s mostly the people you meet, those who feel unseen by the American dream," he said. The character in Stokes' opera, Hannah, originally aimed to donate her liver to her sick brother. However, the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022 shifted her story. Hannah's journey now depicts her as a woman traveling to Chicago for an illegal abortion in 1972. Stokes felt inspired by this change, saying, "When Roe was overturned, it was like, ‘This is what it is about.’" Stokes has been testing "1972" during live performances for over a year. He plans to present a polished version of the rock opera on April 4 at the Somerville Theater for a charity event. This benefit supports Calling All Crows, an organization Stokes co-founded that focuses on women's issues. Stokes has always had a passion for rock musicals, influenced by classics like "Tommy" and "Hair." As he refines "1972," he is working on assembling a creative team for a full stage production and will soon hold auditions for actors and dancers. He believes the current political climate gives his rock opera a sense of urgency. "If this rock opera was unrelated to the crisis we are all in now, I’m not sure it would have legs," he noted. For more details about tickets, visit chadwickstokes.com.