Han Lash

Beowulf

Subtitle	a chamber opera in two acts
Text information	libretto by Han Lash
Year(s) composed	2015
Publisher	Schott Music
Instrumentation	cl(bcl).asax(barsax)-1perc(vib, crot, b.d)-vn
Duration	70'
Premiere	May 20, 2016 · Boston, MA (USA) Zack Box Theater at Boston Conservatory Lighting design: Daniel Chapman · Guerilla Opera Original staging: Andrew Eggert · Costumes: Neil Fortin · Set desing: Julia Noulin-Merat
Commission	Commissioned by Guerilla Opera
Language	English
Roles	Beowulf · baritone - Mother · soprano - Nurse · tenor
Composer note	In this adaptation of the well-known epic poem, Beowulf is a doctor caring for his elderly mother while suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder caused by a recent war. He discovers that his mother is being abused by the nursing home staff and removes her, determined to care for her himself, though she begs him to help end her life. This piece explores the psychological stresses placed upon someone whose role it is to save lives and take care of others.