Libretto by Deborah Brevoort; Music by Aleksandra Vrebalov
A group of military wives, whose husbands are fighting in Fallujah, gather together because of rumors about a possible incident on the war front. As the women await word about what has taken place, a young Army officer drives across the western plains to deliver them the news. A one-act opera for three soloists and a chorus, The Knock takes the audience into the lives of America’s military spouses, a group not yet seen on the opera stage. Commissioned by the Glimmerglass Opera Festival and Cincinnati Opera.
“An evocative and beautifully woven piece, The Knock manages to be many things at once, reverential and damning, internal and operatic….” — Opera News
…”The film contrasts operatic expression of the characters’ inner lives with their ordinary activities…. The Knock tells, with notable care and nuance, a story not just set in America, but one that is singularly American.” — Opera News
“…Stunning….deeply touching…The opera was alternately poignant and gut-wrenching… The creators painted an emotional and realistic picture that resonates long afterwards.” — Cincinnati Business Courier
“The opera was greeted with a moment of silence at its conclusion, a sign of its impact. It deserves a wide hearing.” — Opera News
“Time stood still. There were audible sobs in the audience….it painted a dramatic picture of the sacrifice thousands of military families have made in America’s wars, a story that is little known.” — Cincinnati Business Courier
“Beautiful! Must see! An extremely moving piece.” — Audience Member/ Trip Advisor
“…a powerful music drama… The Knock vividly dissects the experiences of both the messengers and the recipients of the worse possible news. A superb opera.” — All About the Arts
