Work Overview
Inspired by traditional Latvian folk-tale storytelling, the whimsical drama In Cosmic Utero explores the collision of mother nature in the celestial realm with the mundane human world. The opera delves into the trials of motherhood and the fanciful disruptions of day and night through personified nature characters, including the sun goddess Mara, the Moon, an ensemble of tree guardians, and the birth of a star. Through a quirky, fantasy lens, this work blends mythological elements with everyday struggles, seeking the balance between light and dark, as well as duty and desire.
Work Details
Year: 2024
Instrumentation: Soprano, mezzo-soprano, 2 baritones, 3 tenors, 4 sopranos, flute (doubling piccolo), oboe, clarinet in Bb, alto saxophone, baritone saxophone, bassoon, trumpet in B flat, horn in F, trombone, percussion (triangle, wind chimes, suspended cymbal, cowbell, tambourine, temple blocks, whip, ratchet, drum kit, tam-tam, bass drum, crotales, glockenspiel, vibraphone), harp, piano, synth, strings.
Duration: 23 min.
Difficulty: Advanced — Composed for Masters level tertiary students
Commission note: This work was written as part of a collaboration project between Sydney Conservatorium of Music and NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Arts).
The composer notes the following styles, genres, influences, etc in relation to this work:
Contemporary classical opera, folklore, whimsical drama
Performances of this work
28 Oct 24: NIDA Parade Theatre
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