description Moby-Dick Overview
Moby-Dick is an opera by American composer Jake Heggie, with a libretto by Gene Scheer, premiered by the Dallas Opera in 2010. Adapted from Herman Melville's novel, it concentrates on Captain Ahab's pursuit of the white whale and the increasingly dangerous consequences for the crew of the Pequod. Written for a large cast and orchestra, it is intended for audiences interested in contemporary opera, literary adaptation, and maritime drama.
help Moby-Dick FAQ
Which opera company commissioned Jake Heggie's opera "Moby-Dick"?
The opera was commissioned by and premiered at the Dallas Opera in 2010. The premiere starred the renowned tenor Ben Heppner in the obsessive role of Captain Ahab.
Who wrote the libretto for the operatic adaptation of "Moby-Dick"?
Gene Scheer adapted Herman Melville's massive 1851 novel into a workable libretto. To maintain the narrative flow on stage, Scheer shifted the perspective of the story entirely to the character of Greenhorn.
What famous theatrical illusion was created for the opera's staging?
The set design heavily utilizes a giant, curved mechanical apparatus known as a "drum revolve." This allows the stage to physically tilt and spin, effectively simulating the rolling deck of the whaling ship Pequod.
What musical changes were made to adapt the story for an operatic tenor?
Captain Ahab, traditionally an older baritone or bass role, was written as a soaring, high-lying tenor part. This was largely done to suit the vocal strengths of Ben Heppner, giving Ahab an unhinged, fanatical vocal edge.
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