Martin Hennessy and Stephen Kitsakos’ new opera “The Pleasing Recollection” will make its New York debut with two performances at Feinstein’s/54Below on April 5 at 7 p.m. and April 6 at 9:30 p.m.

The autobiographical story of Kitsakos is set in the mid-1970s and follows a young man who arrives in Manhattan and begins to make his way onto the performing arts scene. During his journey, he met some of the music and theater stars of the time like Leonard Bernstein, Aaron Copland, Larry Kert and Charles Ludlam.

Hennessy’s score unites opera, musical theater and cabaret led by baritone Michael Kelly and musical director and pianist Bénédicte Jourdois. Murphy Davis is the director.

Kelly shares her excitement to star in this opera saying, “I’m so proud to have the opportunity to portray such a beautifully realized queer protagonist. It’s exciting to be able to go back in time and revisit the gay culture of the 70s, an era that throbbed with gritty sexuality and endless possibilities.

There will be two previews on April 1 and 2 at Key West Studios in Key West, Florida. After the New York performances, the opera will embark on a national tour this summer.