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Champion: An Opera in Jazz (often shortened to Champion)

140

English

Synopsis

This "opera in jazz" traces the tragic and complex life of world-champion boxer Emile Griffith. The story is told through fragmented memories as an elderly, dementia-ridden Griffith recalls his past. It follows his journey from a hat factory worker in New York to a boxing champion in the 1960s. Central to the plot is his fatal 1962 fight with Benny "Kid" Paret, who taunted Griffith with a homophobic slur. The opera also explores his secret life as a closeted bisexual man, his subsequent guilt, and his decades-late journey toward forgiveness

Composer

Terence Blanchard

Lyricist / Librettist / Playwright

Michael Cristofer

Year of composition/publication / premiere

2013

Genre

Opera

LGBTQAI+ category

Bisexual

Level of centrality

Main character

Characters

Emile Griffith

Voice type

Bass-Baritone

Pronouns

he/him

Publisher / Rights holder

The vocal score is published by Joseph Oliver Music, Inc., and administered worldwide by Hendon Music, Inc.

Where to buy / access the work

The vocal score can be found in library collections or purchased through specialized music retailers. The 2023 Metropolitan Opera recording is available on CD and for streaming

Performance rights

For performance rights, please contact the composer and/or publisher to ensure legal compliance.