The opera 'Dolores,' composed by Nicolás Lell Benavides, focuses on labor activist Dolores Huerta and her contemporaries during a significant labor struggle. It features mezzo-soprano Kelly Guerra as Huerta and explores the political complexities among key figures like Chavez and Itliong. Benavides incorporates a diverse musical palette, including influences from rancheras, Gregorian chant, and minimalism. The opera emphasizes the disagreements among these labor leaders, aiming to present a realistic portrayal of their historical complexities rather than idealizing their legacies. 'Dolores' will premiere on August 2 and has garnered interest from multiple opera companies.
Benavides' stylistically polyglot score draws on his full spectrum of influences, with electric guitar and saxophone included in the chamber ensemble "to give it some edge."
The score amplifies the uncertainty and debate that took place among the three labor leaders as they navigated the rapidly shifting political landscape.
Benavides leans into their disagreements and clashes, seeking to take them off their pedestals and presenting a more nuanced view of historical figures.
A lot of historical figures, Dolores included, become deified in a bad way, and we must engage with their complexities.
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