TANGLED ROOTS
An Opera in One Act
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Music composed and arranged by
Rufus Ferguson, Jordan Hamilton and Carmen Bell
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Libretto composed and arranged by Carmen Bell
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Born in Slavery: Slave Narratives from the Federal Writers' Project, 1936-1938 is a collection of over 2,300 first-person accounts of slavery, along with 500 black-and-white photographs of former slaves. The narratives were collected by the Federal Writers' Project of the Works Progress Administration.
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Synopsis
The opera opens with Queenie graciously greeting her guest at her home. As they settle in, Queenie reveals a treasured family bible she inherited, which contains the names of her ancestors written in its back pages. She asks her guest if they would like to learn more about the stories and legacies of those whose names are inscribed.
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As Queenie begins to read the names aloud, the voices of her ancestors fill the room, bringing their powerful and poignant stories to life. Through these voices, the audience is taken on a journey through time, exploring the rich and complex histories of African American lives, as told by those who lived them.
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Each name brings forth a new narrative, weaving together tales of hardship, resilience, love, and hope. The opera delves into the depths of these ancestral stories, illuminating the enduring spirit and strength of the African American community.
Act I
Scene I . An Un-watered Seed
Scene II. Roots of Courage
Scene III. Leaves of Faith
Scene IV. Blossoms of Freedom
Scene V. Resolve
