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SWANN

English

Synopsis

The digital opera short depicts an intimate evening at the abode of William Dorsey Swann, the first self-identified "queen of drag," leading up to his detention and conviction in 1896 for "keeping a disorderly house." The work presents two irreconcilable worldviews simultaneously: a joyful party hosted by Swann, represented by a rich baritone voice; and the Voice of Justice, the arresting officer, hauntingly sung by a countertenor

Composer

Tamar-kali

Lyricist / Librettist / Playwright

Carl Hancock Rux

Year of composition/publication / premiere

2023

Genre

Other:

LGBTQAI+ category

Queer

Level of centrality

Main character

Characters

William Dorsey Swann

Voice type

Baritone, Contra-tenor

Pronouns

he/him

Publisher / Rights holder

Catapult Opera (commissioner and presenter)

Where to buy / access the work

Performance rights

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