Osvaldo Golijov’s Flamenco-tinged opera based on the life of Spanish playwright Federico Garcia Lorca is set to make its debut at the Metropolitan Opera. The opera, titled “Ainadamar,” explores the tragic story of Lorca, who was assassinated by fascist forces at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War. The title of the opera, an Arabic word meaning “fountain of tears,” alludes to the location where Lorca was killed in 1936.
The collaboration between Golijov and playwright David Henry Hwang came about when Golijov found himself facing a tight deadline for a commission. Hwang wrote the libretto in English, which Golijov then translated into Spanish. The opera premiered in 2003 and has since been restaged, with its upcoming run at the Metropolitan Opera helmed by director and choreographer Deborah Colker.
Hwang and Golijov were inspired by the connection between Lorca’s work and his untimely death. The opera follows the perspective of Margarita Xirgu, a key figure in Lorca’s life, rather than focusing solely on Lorca himself. Golijov faced a unique challenge when he discovered that the cast assembled for the opera was all female, leading to the decision to portray Lorca as a woman.
At the Met, mezzo Daniela Mack takes on the role of Lorca, while soprano Angel Blue portrays Margarita. The production, performed without intermission, features a diverse and talented cast under the baton of conductor Miguel Harth-Bedoya. Golijov’s score, described as a blend of Flamenco, electronic music, and classical opera, is brought to life by Colker’s innovative staging, which incorporates elements of dance and movement.
For Golijov, having his opera staged at the Met is a significant milestone, especially after a previous commission was cancelled due to his struggles with depression. Despite the setbacks, Golijov has continued to create new works and is currently working on a new opera inspired by the Soviet space dog Laika. Reflecting on his past challenges with the Met, Golijov remains hopeful that his future works will find their way to the prestigious opera house.
The production of “Ainadamar” at the Metropolitan Opera promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience, blending music, dance, and storytelling to honour the legacy of Federico Garcia Lorca. With a talented cast and creative team at the helm, the opera is poised to captivate audiences and bring the powerful story of Lorca’s life and death to the forefront of the operatic stage.