This opera is a modern day telling of Orpheus where Euridice is not killed by the snake, but taken by the opioid dealer, Snake. Our “Oskar” along with Eury’s friend Ivy, set out to save her. As in the original fate of Orpheus, Oskar and Ivy will fail, but their efforts will remain in the stars and their love for Eury will endure.  

This opera is confronting a social plague that continues to ravage our society and our communities, substance abuse. Opioid Addiction is a leading malady among our neighbors and friends, and people across the world. We know all of the science and are making great scientific and political strides, particularly with the recent availability of Narcan nasal spray. But we need to do more in the area of human emotion for the greater population beyond those who are afflicted or families and friends of those who suffer. Art has an opportunity and, I believe, an obligation to address this issue with new work and new media confronting this terrible disease.

Forces:

Eury, Soprano

Ivy, Soprano

Oskar, Baritone

Snake, Tenor

Bando Character One, Baritone

Bando Character Two, Tenor

Chorus

Piano, Guitar, Double Bass, Percussion (additional orchestration available)