Heroes

The old statues have been pulled down. What new figures will take their place?

As we slowly emerge from a pandemic and an era of toxic politics, holding heightened perspectives on social justice, global citizenship, and environmental concerns - many of yesterday’s icons no longer serve us as we stride into the heart of the 21st century. This October, the indie companies of the Decameron Opera Coalition return to your favorite small screen with HEROES - seven world premiere opera short films presented in three episodes, all framed by original art songs by Hilliard and Boresi, with special guest Karen Slack.

Our diverse collection of creators explore the meaning of heroism and profile unsung, unconventional, or misunderstood heroes from varying eras and geographies. HEROES looks forward into a new era of innovation in opera and to increasingly enlightened perspectives on who we hold up as role models and why. Some of the subjects include Hazel Johnson, the “Mother of Environmental Activism”, a Pay-What-You-Can Cafe in an urban food desert, and even the everyday heroes in and around all of our lives.

8 World Premieres in 3 Heroic Episodes - Now Streaming on AÏRIS!

Episodes

Episode 1: Answering the Call
(Hero Songs, Unsung Activist, Letter to Our Children, The Place)
Episode 2: The Long Arc
(Hero Songs, Sacajawea: Woman of Many Names, The Widow’s Will)
Episode 3: Sustenance
(Hero Songs, Home Cooked Heroes, Heroes of New York)

HEROES is recommended for viewers age 13 and up. In 7 operatic films and 5 art songs, Heroes explores heroism past and present, the qualities that make a hero, and the effect that perseverance, bravery, and hope can have on a community. Entries contain images of police violence, alcohol use, the use of one strong racial slur, implication of human trafficking, and a frank, though tasteful, discussion of sex work.

Chapters

Collaborative Partners

Creators in Conversation

Learn more about the 8 world premiere opera films from the composers, librettists, producers, singers, directors, cinematographers, and others who brought them to life!

Conversations with each company chapter team

Premiere Week Parties with the creators and artists

Heroes

The old statues have been pulled down. What new figures will take their place?

8 World Premieres in 3 Heroic Episodes - Now Streaming on AÏRIS!

Episodes

Chapters

Hero Songs

Unsung Activist

Letter to OUr Children

The Place

Sacajawea: Woman of Many Names

The Widow’s Will

Home Cooked Heroes

heroes of New York

Collaborative Partners

Creators in Conversation