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Beowulf

a chamber opera in two acts

Year
2015
Duration
70'
Category
Opera
Instrumentation
cl(bcl).sax(barsax)-1perc(vib, crot, b.d)-vc
Texts
libretto by Han Lash
Commission
Commissioned by Guerilla Opera
Premiere
May 20, 2016 · Boston, MA (USA)
Zack Box Theater at Boston Conservatory
Lighting design: Daniel Chapman · Guerilla Opera
Original staging: Andrew Eggert · Costumes: Neil Fortin · Set design: Julia Noulin-Merat
Publisher
Schott

In this adaptation of the well-known epic poem, Beowulf is a doctor caring for his elderly mother while suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder caused by a recent war. He discovers that his mother is being abused by the nursing home staff and removes her, determined to care for her himself, though she begs him to help end her life. This piece explores the psychological stresses placed upon someone whose role it is to save lives and take care of others.

Video

When Can I Go Home from "Beowulf" by Hannah Lash image

When Can I Go Home from "Beowulf" by Hannah Lash

Beowulf by Hannah Lash: Act I, Prelude image

Beowulf by Hannah Lash: Act I, Prelude