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| America Tropical |
| Music by David Conte |
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The crucified Indian takes on the mantle of the Virgin as seen in the wall projection |
| Libretto by Oliver Mayer |
| Based upon a mural executed in 1932 by David Alfaro Siqueiros (and immediately whitewashed for its controversial imagery), the one-act opera explores economic, racial and political inequities surrounding the history of Los Angeles from its founding in 1781 through 1992. |
| presented by University of Delaware Opera Theatre Loudis Recital Hall Newark, Delaware October 2011 Directed by Dr. Blake Smith Conducted by Dr. James Allen Anderson Sets by Eddy Seger |
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| Lighting and projections of photos and videos were a large part of the multi-media presentation. |
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| Seger covered the recital hall walls with black plastic spattered with white. He and Dr. Smith envisioned an industrial abstract quality to the piece. |
| Midway through the opera, Siqueiros reveals the mural. |
| The Indian comes to life. |
| A connection to the Rodney King beating and subsequent riots was integral to the storytelling. A burning car can be seen on the far wall. |
| Presented the same night, also by Conte. |
| A Mexican Indian, portrayed crucified below the American eagle, becomes flesh and blood in the opera. |
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| The Getty Foundation's reconstructed rendition of the still-whitewashed Siqueiros mural. |