About Sensorium Ex

Sensorium Ex is an ambitious new opera by acclaimed composer Paola Prestini and Brenda Shaughnessy, that synthesizes artificial intelligence, disability, and the arts in a groundbreaking and innovative artistic work. The visionary production pushes the boundaries of what it means to have a voice, paving the way for future artists with disabilities. It delves deep into the essence of voice, transcending the limits of language to profoundly reimagine what it can be. Premiering for the first time at Common Senses Festival 2025, Sensorium Ex creates an entirely new operatic world – one that redefines who gets to have a voice.

Blurring the lines between art and technology, the opera will feature a new set of AI tools developed in partnership with NYU’s Ability Lab that will expand the possibilities for voice and expression in people with disordered, impaired, or limited speech. With a cast of predominantly disabled performers, the project seeks to devise new artistic practices which center disability equity and access throughout all steps in the process. Sensorium Ex is composed by Paola Prestini, co-produced by VisionIntoArt and Beth Morrison Projects, directed by Jerron Herman and Jay Scheib, and features a libretto by poet Brenda Shaughnessy. 

Tickets

Tickets go on sale March 8. Visit commonsensesfestival.com to explore the full lineup of events and discover how you can participate​.

The Common Senses Festival

This event is part of the 2025 Common Senses Festival. Several festival events will be held on the UNO campus in April and May.