Somewhere in this Global Garden (2020) by Tomeka Reid

Opera Film Original | 5 min | 2020

Commissioned by: Greta & Peter Mandell

Composer: Tomeka Reid

Text: Ugochi Nwaogwugwu

Performed by: Alicia Hall Moran (Mezzo-soprano)

Somewhere in this Global Garden is not just an opera film; it's a powerful and timely reflection on the challenges and injustices faced by Black individuals in America. With music composed by the talented Tomeka Reid and evocative text penned by Ugochi Nwaogwugwu, this film is a striking collaboration that fuses music, poetry, and visuals into an unforgettable experience.

Mezzo-soprano Alicia Hall Moran lends her extraordinary voice to bring this poignant narrative to life. Through her singing, she explores the deeply rooted issues of racism, violence, and systemic oppression that have plagued Black communities for generations.

The film's text, For the Dearly Departed, is a haunting litany of names that serves as a stark reminder of the lives lost to racial violence. From historical tragedies like the 16th Street Baptist Church bombings to recent victims like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, these names are etched into the collective memory of a nation grappling with its troubled past and present.

As we navigate the challenges of our time, this opera film invites us to confront uncomfortable truths, acknowledge the pain of the past, and work together to build a more just and equitable future. Somewhere in this Global Garden is a stirring testament to the power of art to inspire change and reflection in the face of adversity. It's an experience that will stay with you long after the final note fades away.

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