Selections from Angel of the Amazon at Notre Dame de Namur
Ed. note: You can also find a clearer version of the video here. It is very funny how musical works take a life of their own.
The message of Sr. Dorothy is what this opera has become. I spent most of my
time out west, meeting people, networking, and setting up a future return of
the NYC production of the opera. Along the way, I found that many people wanted
to see the retelling of Sr. Dorothy's life and mission, not as a tribute, but
as a means to carry out her work.
This concept may not seem novel, but it is a bit rare in the
opera world. The struggle of Dorothy's people is still happening. For example,
I got to announce the conviction of the mastermind of Sr. Dorothy's murder
before the first notes were played. Regivaldo Galvo, the “John Gotti” of Para,
was convicted for her murder. Angel of
the Amazon reminded the crowd of 200 that more work needs to be done.
So my goal for this work has shifted from “page to stage” to
using opera to get people involved, to act, to do something about a struggle
that is still happening. I write this today, 19 days after the performance, as
the news broke that the released Regivaldo Galvo on his own accord until the
retrial. This will give him plenty of time to “knock off” or “buy out”
witnesses. The reality of the Brazilian justice system corrupts Dorothy's
message (or possibly reinforces it in death).
I look forward to the NYC read through and staging of this
opera. I will continue tell you all about the process as it unfolds.
In the meantime, you
can help here.
Previously:
* From Idea to Opera: Part I
* From Idea to Opera: Part II,
Building the Story
* From Idea to Opera: Part III, Character Studies
* From Idea to Opera: Part IV, Off the Page, Onto the Stage
* From Idea to Opera: Part V, New York Recital