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Sarah Kirkland Snider: A Long-Awaited Voyage into the World of Opera
On November 5-9, 2025, the LA Opera will present Sarah Kirkland Snider's highly anticipated opera Hildegard, marking her first foray into the operatic realm. Snider, often referred to as a rising star by the Wall Street Journal, has intricately woven historical events and the profound words of Hildegard von Bingen into a captivating narrative that is set to redefine modern opera.
The Mystical Theologian of the 12th Century Inspires Modern Creativity
Hildegard von Bingen was not just any saint; she was a polymath—a visionary abbess whose remarkable contributions spanned theology, botany, and music in the 12th century. Her journey from a contemplative nun receiving divine visions to a powerful voice within the Church offers an inspiring backdrop for Snider's artistic exploration. Over the past 25 years, Snider's fascination with Hildegard's story has culminated in this opera, originally sparked by her personal connection to migraine—a condition both women shared, as Snider passionately recounts.
A Journey Through Time: The Backdrop of Hildegard
The production takes audiences back to the year 1147, where the boundaries of faith and creativity blur. Amidst a time when women's voices were often silenced, Hildegard and her fellow nun, Richardis von Stade, chart a path through spiritual awakening and artistic expression. This opera not only highlights their collaboration but also invites discussions on gender, power dynamics, and the struggle for authenticity in a restrictive society.
Transformative Relationships: The Heart of Snider's Narrative
What makes Hildegard particularly compelling is the relationship between Hildegard and Richardis. As the opera unfolds, audiences watch these two women navigate a journey of self-discovery that deepens into an intimate partnership, fraught with the societal and spiritual challenges of their time. Snider's own words speak volumes about this dynamic: "I wanted to explore aspects of her philosophy and the more mysterious realm of her visions," she shares, illustrating the delicate balance between personal and shared experiences in their quest for meaning.
A Groundbreaking Opera Production
Directed by the innovative Elkhanah Pulitzer, the opera promises a multi-sensory experience fortified by immersive visual projections designed by Deborah Johnson. This production is a creative collaboration between multiple institutions including the Beth Morrison Projects and the Aspen Music Festival. The engagement of a chamber ensemble of 11 instruments, under the baton of Gabriel Crouch, adds to the opera’s complex sonic landscape. Such artistic synergy elevates the performance far beyond traditional interpretations, moving it into a realm of contemporary relevance.
Bridging Past and Present: What Audiences Can Expect
As we navigate through the complexities of modern life, this opera serves as an inspiring reminder of the timeless battles for voice and visibility. Snider's music captures the essence of Hildegard's struggles and triumphs, inviting audiences to reflect on their own experiences with the power structures that surround them. This groundbreaking work not only highlights historical injustices but also emerges as a catalyst for discussion on gender equality, creativity, and spiritual freedom in today's context.
What’s Next? Looking Ahead After the Premiere
Following its world premiere in Los Angeles, Hildegard is set to travel to the PROTOTYPE Festival in New York City in January 2026. This two-city tour reflects the growing interest in contemporary opera that thrives on pushing boundaries and challenging sociology through art. As Snider's work continues to resonate with audiences, it paves the way for future artists seeking to explore uncharted territories in operatic storytelling.
Embrace the Experience: Connecting Through Cultural Storytelling
The remarkable story of Hildegard speaks not only to opera lovers but to anyone interested in how art can reflect and shape our understanding of the past, present, and future. As we look forward to this world premiere, we are reminded of the powerful connections that art can foster within our communities. It is vital for those who appreciate the arts to witness how cultural narratives struggle for survival, evolution, and dialogue in our current age.
Don't miss the chance to experience this unique celebration of women in history and the arts. Get your tickets for Hildegard at LA Opera and join in the conversation about one of history’s most fascinating figures.
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