SOURCE MATERIAL
Based on Zane Grey's Riders of the Purple Sage (1912), the most famous novel by the best-selling Western author of all time
Novel has sold more than two million copies in 20 languages, and has been adapted as a film five times
World premiere production also built on the established work of famed Southwest artist Ed Mell, who created hard sets and stunning digital landscapes in his scenic design
THEMES
Major themes include women's independence, religious fundamentalism, guns in society, vigilante justice, and abuse of power
Social philosophies explored include rugged individualism, manifest destiny, and the pioneer aesthetic
Character arcs include struggles of identity, faith, finding home, confronting abuses of power, and revenge vs. forgiveness
MUSIC
Influenced by Carlisle Floyd, Stephen Sondheim, Kurt Weill
Utilizes musical idioms of Western film soundtracks
Sweeping orchestral score and accessible melodic set numbers
Straddles worlds of opera and musical theater – multiple styles used to suit the text and story
Reviews
"Suave melodies and distinctive motives...a fascinating work that deserves to be heard often." –Opera Today
"Monumental and well-crafted, Riders can lay claim to a rightful place in the canon of works about the American West. A dynamic and memorable production...resonates with authenticity in the voices of a superb cast...that merits the unequivocal standing ovation." –Broadway World
"Bohmler's cinematic score also has a very contemporary energy, with flashing violins of the sort that build excitement in the latest “Star Wars” flick. This engaging production is built on sturdy bones: iconic hero-and-villain characters, a suspenseful story and a score that’s studded with soaring, hummable melodies. There’s no denying the edge-of-your-seat energy..." –The Republic
"Bohmler’s score had strong references to classic Western film themes — it reminds us of the Silver Screen era Westerns without imitating them." –Arizona Daily Star
WORLD PREMIERE
World premiere production by Arizona Opera in Feb/Mar 2017
Company's first commission and world premiere
Single ticket sales $390,924 – 3rd highest in company's 45 seasons
Best-selling show for Arizona Opera in 12 years
Total attendance for world premiere run – 7,796
PREMIERE CREATIVE TEAM
Composer Craig Bohmler
Librettist Steven Mark Kohn
Conductor Joseph Mechavich
Stage Director Fenlon Lamb
Scenic Design Ed Mell
Projection Design Jake Pinholster
Costume Design Kathleen Trott
Lighting Design Gregory Allen Hirsch
Filmmaker & Co-Producer Kristin Atwell Ford
Executive Producers Billie Jo & Judd Herberger
Header image by Robert Pflumm, courtesy of Quantum Leap Productions