The Beehive (2023) commissioned by the University of Northern Iowa,Music by JorgeSosa, Libretto by Melisa Tien

 

Cast: Abby, Soprano, June, Soprano, Fabiola, Dramatic Soprano, May, Mezzo-Soprano.

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Orchestra Reduced: Violin1, Violin 2,Viola, Cello, Bass, Piano, 1 Percussion.

 

Expanded Orchestration: 1 Flute, 1 Oboe, 1 Clarinet, 1 Bassoon, 1 Trumpet, 1 Horn, 1 Trombone, 2 percussion(one plays drum set), Piano, Violin1, Violin 2, Viola, Cello, Bass (doubling electric bass).Single strings or small string section.

 

Duration: 65-70 minutes

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Language: English

Publisher: Jorge Sosa Music

 

Synopsis: A darkly comic chamber opera for four high voices,The Beehive follows a handful of hairstylists in a small midwestern town who know they’re awesome at what they do, in spite of having been abandoned by the most talented stylist in their midst. That is, until the new girl arrives. As a tentative alliance forms between her and the old familiar hands, identities and allegiances become malleable, and in some cases unrecognizable. Inspired by Gogol’sThe Overcoat, and full of pop-musical-references,The Beehive is a contemporary opera about authenticity, the fine line between passion and obsession, and the deeds obsession can drive people to commit.

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Premiered at the University of Northern Iowa, 2023. Richard Gammon, Producer and Director, Erik Rhode, conductor. Abby, Gabrielle Flannery, June, Amanda Mcllravy, May, Lauren Leman, Fabiola, Joey Seitz.

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