Overview

The Lyric Opera of Orange County, in collaboration with the Assyrian Arts Institute and the chamber music ensemble Bridge to Everywhere, is set to premiere a new operatic adaptation of the ancient tale of Gilgamesh. This multimedia production, titled "Gilgamesh: The Opera," will take place at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts on March 28 and 29.

Considered one of the oldest literary works, the story of Gilgamesh dates back 4,000 years and revolves around the epic journey of a demigod from ancient Mesopotamia. The production aims to honor Assyrian culture while exploring timeless themes of friendship, love, grief, and legacy.

Key details

  • The opera will premiere on March 28 and 29 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.
  • It is a collaboration between the Lyric Opera of Orange County, the Assyrian Arts Institute, and Bridge to Everywhere.
  • The story of Gilgamesh is recognized as the world’s first hero narrative, featuring a character who is two-thirds god and one-third human.
  • “The Epic of Gilgamesh” is known for its exploration of immortality and the consequences of defying the gods.
  • The production incorporates various artistic elements, including ballet, puppetry, multimedia projections, and diverse musical styles.
  • Nora Betyousef Lacey, Executive Director of the Assyrian Arts Institute, emphasizes the importance of honoring Assyrian culture through this adaptation.
  • Director/librettist Diana Farrell and composer Derrick Skye are key collaborators in creating this innovative presentation.
  • Ethnomusicologist Eve Sada contributed her expertise to ensure accurate cultural representation in the production.
  • The adaptation aims to connect ancient themes with contemporary relevance, making the story relatable to modern audiences.
  • Farrell, who has an Assyrian background, faced challenges in condensing the expansive plot into a personal narrative.
  • The goal is for audiences to see themselves reflected in the character of Gilgamesh by the end of the performance.
  • This production seeks to keep the legacy of Gilgamesh alive for future generations.

Context

The Gilgamesh narrative, originating from ancient Mesopotamia, has been a significant part of world literature and Assyrian heritage. Its themes of mortality and friendship continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a fitting subject for a modern operatic interpretation.

What happens next

The premiere of “Gilgamesh: The Opera” will showcase the collaborative efforts of various artists and aim to engage the community in a dialogue about the importance of cultural heritage and storytelling.

What we don't know yet

Details regarding ticket availability, pricing, and specific performance times have not been confirmed.