This Modern Opera is Inspired by U.S. Marine Sergeant Christian Ellis
Katherine Pendrill — March 12, 2016 — Art & Design
References: longbeachopera.org & fastcocreate
'Fallujah' is a modern opera that recounts the experience of retired U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant Christian Ellis. While there have been a great deal of films made about the Iraq War, Fallujah represents the first time the subject has been addressed in the form of an opera.
Written by Heather Raffo and composed by Tobin Stokes, Fallujah tells the tale of Ellis' experience as a machine gunner during the Iraq War. After his platoon was ambushed and bombed during the 2004 battle of Fallujah, Ellis was left with a broken back and PTSD. The modern opera specifically focuses on the 72 hours in a veteran's hospital after Ellis made his third suicide attempt. While the subject matter is dark, the opera aims to convey a more realistic idea of what it is like for veterans to endure combat.
Written by Heather Raffo and composed by Tobin Stokes, Fallujah tells the tale of Ellis' experience as a machine gunner during the Iraq War. After his platoon was ambushed and bombed during the 2004 battle of Fallujah, Ellis was left with a broken back and PTSD. The modern opera specifically focuses on the 72 hours in a veteran's hospital after Ellis made his third suicide attempt. While the subject matter is dark, the opera aims to convey a more realistic idea of what it is like for veterans to endure combat.
Trend Themes
1. Modern Operas - Opportunities to create modern operas that explore unconventional and thought-provoking subjects such as war and PTSD.
2. Exploration of Dark Topics - Innovative ways to address and explore dark and challenging subjects through different art forms and mediums like opera.
3. Realistic Portrayal of War - The potential for more works of art that aim to provide a realistic portrayal of the experiences and challenges faced by veterans in combat.
Industry Implications
1. Performing Arts - The performing arts industry can explore new dimensions by producing more modern operas that break conventions and address unconventional topics.
2. Mental Health - Innovations are needed in the mental health industry to improve treatment and support for individuals suffering from PTSD and other mental health challenges.
3. Film and Television - Opportunities for filmmakers and TV producers to create more realistic and nuanced portrayals of war veterans and the challenges they face.
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