"Friends of Freedom," an opera written by two
Catholics, will debut Feb. 26, 1:30 p.m., at Schenectady High School.
The one-act opera, which lasts approximately 45 minutes,
deals with the Underground Railroad through stories about individuals who
helped slaves reach freedom in the mid-1800s.
"Friends of Freedom" was written by Kim Harris
and Wm. Glenn Osborne, neither of whom had ever worked on an opera. She
and her husband Reggie have performed throughout the country for the past
30 years. Mr. Osborne is director of music and organist for the Cathedral
of the Immaculate Conception in Albany.
Act one
Mrs. Harris came up with the opera idea as a thesis for
her master of divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in
Washington, D.C. She will graduate in June.
She and her husband have used the story of the Underground
Railroad for many years in their performances. As the result of extensive
study and research, they have written many songs that tell that story.
"I love the opera," Mrs. Harris told The
Evangelist. "This type of music utilizes many opportunities for
performers, such as acting and singing, as well as engaging those who see
and hear it. I wanted to tell a story, and I thought, 'Why not an
opera?'"
Words and music
Mrs. Harris turned to Mr. Osborne for the music because
"we had already worked together a few times, and I knew that he was
familiar with composing music on the computer. This is what I was looking
for."
He agreed to compose the music, although he admits that
opera is not one of his favorite genres.
"Opera requires one to take a mental leap, suspend
reality if you will," he said. "It can be difficult to compose.
But this was aimed at children to introduce them to the form. It
incorporates original music as well as spirituals. The audience gets
connected; they have an opportunity to interact with the performers.
"The opera is long enough to tell the story Kim
wanted to tell but short enough to keep everyone's attention, especially
that of children. The finished piece really is suitable for everyone. It
was a true collaborative effort."
(For more information, go to www.kimandreggie.com and
click on opera. The opera will be performed as part of a day-long
conference on the Underground Railroard. To register, go to
www.ugrworkshop.com or call 432-4432.)
(2/24/05)