Gertrude Stein Invents A Jump Early On, a new music and jazz opera by poet Karren LaLonde Alenier and composer William Banfield premiered June 15, 2005 under the direction of Encompass New Opera Theatre artistic director Nancy Rhodes and music director John Yaffe. Co-commissioners are The Word Works and Encompass New Opera Theatre. Nancy Rhodes was the developing director. New York Times critic Anthony Tommasini reviewed the opening night performance.

Venues for new production of the Stein opera are being developed. Inquiries may be sent to poet@steinopera.com.