In Partnership with Opera Lafayette

Did you know that the first complete opera by a Black American has been hidden in a single manuscript for more than 130 years? Edmond Dédé, a fourth-generation free person of color born in 1827 New Orleans, had an incredibly successful career as a conductor and composer in Bordeaux, France, writing nearly 100 critically and popularly acclaimed works for the French stage. His magnum opus, however–a four act French grand opera on themes from Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves–had yet to receive a premiere at the time of his death and languished, unrecognized, in private collections and libraries for over a century.

Opera Lafayette, with Artistic Director Designate Patrick Dupré Quigley, and in partnership with New Orleans’ OperaCréole’s Givonna Joseph (who will lead the Pre-Show Discussions), have painstakingly transcribed this monumental work and will present the long overdue world premiere of Dédé’s masterpiece, 138 years after its composition.

Note: This production will be performed in concert and is not fully staged.