Flight (2006- 2008; Act II work-in-progress )

A Chamber Opera in Two Acts

Hyejung Kook, librettist

Sponsored by Taiwan National Culture and Arts Foundation

Grant for Creative Work

Synopsis

A Chinese mother illegally immigrates to America, bringing only her dreams and her ten-year-old daughter, Mei.  The father is unable to join them until five years later, only after his wife has died. Grieving and bewildered but proud, Mr. Gu struggles to connect with his daughter and make a life for them both.  He must rely on the help of Mr. Lee, a seemingly helpful businessman who knew his wife.  But Mr. Lee is not what he seems, and the lingering spirit of his dead wife bears helpless witness to the tragic events that follow once the truth is revealed.

Operatic Roles

Daughter – Soprano, Meihua, who goes by Mei, fifteen

Mother – Alto, Mr. Gu’s wife, Huaxing, in her early forties

Uncle – Tenor, Mr. Lee, an associate of Mother, in his late thirties

Father – Bass, Mr. Gu, in his early forties

Ensemble

Flute/Piccolo, Clarinet/Bass Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Percussions, Piano/Celesta, Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Violoncello, Double Bass