In late April 2012, Hugh will present a large-scale 3-act River Opera, at Warnecke Ranch & Vineyards in Healdsburg. Following the curving intersection of Brooks Creek and the River, the Opera will move from glade to glade, using natural features to define the stage.
Multiple musicians will be spread throughout the space, as well as installations that reflect on the sonic and visual qualities of the River (preview of installation components and concepts).
Preview sketch performance video documentation, August 6, 2011. Press: ArtHound.
Staging and choreography by Tanya Kane-Parry. Libretto by Fred Euphrat.

The first glimpse of the River, from a bluff 60 feet above. A window frames the opposite bank. Sound is heard from the hills behind, yet no musicians are visible.

A natural theater, complete with wings and overhangs. The action unfolds in 4 planes receding away from the viewers as in a conventional theatrical setting. Dancers use windows as props as they appear and disappear from the surrounding foliage.

A milling about space, with sound installations in every tree, and roving vocalists and instrumentalists. To be explored by the viewer without constraints.

Another natural theater space, this one very long, plays with perspective and distance as the musicians move rapidly through the space.

The road leads down to Brooks Creek, and the audience is invited to finally get their feet wet in the River.