Among the five shows at Santa Fe Opera this past summer, The Righteous stood out as the star player. Crafted by Gregory Spears with words by Tracy K. Smith, this contemporary opera fearlessly pushes boundaries. It goes beyond mere freshness; it delves deep into the conflicting facets of contemporary America, striking a chord with the audience. By exploring the intricate intertwining of faith and political power during the Reagan era, the opera eerily foreshadows the extreme ideological divisions prevalent today.
It grapples with significant social and political upheavals, such as the AIDS crisis, the war on drugs, and the struggle for women's rights.
The protagonist, David, transitions from a preacher to a political figure, eventually ascending to the governor's office. He forges close ties with Jonathan, the son of a prominent oil magnate, and marries into that influential family. The contemporary narrative is rife with relationship drama, particularly involving Michele and Sheila, as David navigates the complexities of his political ascent.
"The Righteous" marks a significant milestone for both Spears, the composer, and Smith, the librettist. It exudes a biblical aura intertwined with profound poetry and captivating music. The opera's set design and lighting impeccably capture the essence of the Southwest.
The entire production seemed to be flawlessly directed, with the actor's breathing life into the story in a compelling manner. The entire cast delivered a stellar performance, making the opera an absolute must-see.
Ultimately, "The Righteous" is an exceptional opera that delves into weighty themes while keeping the audience captivated from beginning to end. I hope you can find this extraordinary production online or if you went to see it in person, let me know!
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