
As an Amazon Associate and affiliate partner, Menrva Books earns from qualifying purchases. Learn more
An opera for coloratura soprano, mezzo-soprano, bass baritone, lyric tenor, drumming ensemble, child actor, SSA children's choir, adult speaking role, a children's rhythm chorus, and orchestra. Dreaming Blue began with the words and images of a group of students from a Salt Lake City elementary school who were asked to image being their favorite color. Out of their work full of beauty, clear emotion, and simplicity, came the inspiration for the music and characters of this opera.
A group of elementary school students explore the abstract concept of identity by imagining themselves as their favorite colors. The narrative follows these children as they translate their internal perceptions into a musical and theatrical performance. The work functions as a collaborative exploration of childhood imagination, utilizing a diverse cast of vocalists and a rhythmic ensemble to bring these color-based personas to life. The structure is presented as a one-act opera, blending the perspectives of youth with professional musical composition.
Discussion often centers on the unique collaborative process between the composer and the elementary school students who provided the initial imagery. Readers and performers frequently highlight the accessibility of the work, noting how it balances professional operatic requirements with the authentic, unadorned perspectives of children. The pacing is described as fluid and evocative, mirroring the shifting nature of the colors represented on stage. Critics often point to the effective integration of the children's choir as a primary strength that elevates the emotional impact of the performance. This work is widely regarded as a significant example of community-engaged composition that maintains high artistic standards.
Page Count:
148
Publication Date:
2004-08-26
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0193866072
ISBN-13:
9780193866072
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!