Composer

:

Robert Ward

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1993

Average_duration

:

57:20

Movement_count

:

13

Movement ....

"Roman Fever" is an opera composed by Robert Ward, with a libretto by Kenneth Koch. The opera is based on a short story of the same name by Edith Wharton. It was composed in 1995 and premiered on March 9, 1996, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. The plot of "Roman Fever" revolves around two middle-aged women, Mrs. Slade and Mrs. Ansley, who are visiting Rome with their daughters. The two women were once close friends, but their relationship was strained by a love triangle involving Mrs. Slade's husband and Mrs. Ansley's fiancé. As they reminisce about their past, they reveal their true feelings and motivations, leading to a dramatic confrontation. The opera is divided into two movements, with the first movement focusing on the women's memories of their past and the second movement dealing with their present-day confrontation. The music is characterized by lush, romantic melodies and intricate harmonies, reflecting the emotional complexity of the characters. One of the key themes of "Roman Fever" is the destructive power of jealousy and envy. Both Mrs. Slade and Mrs. Ansley are consumed by their jealousy of each other, leading to a bitter rivalry that ultimately destroys their friendship. The opera also explores the themes of love, betrayal, and the passage of time, as the women come to terms with their past and confront their present-day feelings. Overall, "Roman Fever" is a powerful and emotionally charged opera that explores the complexities of human relationships and the destructive power of jealousy and envy. Its lush melodies and intricate harmonies make it a memorable and moving work of art.

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