HOBSON’S CHOICE NOTE: This work was premiered by the Ventura (California) College Opera Workshop A DVD of the premiere performance is available from: LOS ANGELES TIMES “--an accessible and artful new period-piece opera.” “--he charts a neoclassical course in his writing, but with little twists along the harmonic path.”It succeeds on many levels.”
by
John Biggs
A chamber opera in 3 acts, based on the English play “Hobson’s Choice” by Harold Brighouse.
Duration: 2:30 - including 2 intermissions
Forces required: 2 sopranos, 2 mezzo sopranos, 1 tenor, 3 baritones, 1 bass
Chamber orchestra of 8: fl, cl, bsn, vn, va, vc, cb, piano
on October 13, 2000, with a run of nine performances, which was extended to ten.
CONSORT PRESS
SCENE FROM THE OPERA
SYNOPSIS - - PHOTO GALLERY - - LISTENING ROOM - - INQUIRIES
In addition to the reviews below, the Los Angeles Times, in its December 29th, 2000 edition,
named Hobson's Choice as one of the ÒHigh NotesÓ of the year.
SANTA BARBARA INDEPENDENT “---the exact play to turn into a John Biggs opera.” “---the vocal writing is brilliant, with every word of the dialogue clearly understood and given its proper
emotional weight.”
VENTURA COUNTY STAR “---a wide ranging score that provides many amusing moments and
some excellent ensemble work.” “---delightful---”