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The Historic Premiere of “Morgiane”: A Milestone in American Opera
The opera “Morgiane,” often regarded as the pioneering work by a Black American composer, took to the stage for the very first time in 2025, despite its profound historical importance. This landmark production is the culmination of the artistic journey of Edmond Dede, a composer born in New Orleans.
Set against the backdrop of “Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves,” “Morgiane” narrates the tale of a mother named Morgaine and her daughter Amine as they confront and resist a despotic sultan. The opera is not just a captivating story; it also encapsulates Dede’s extraordinary life and experiences.
Born in 1827, Dede was a free Black man in New Orleans. His musical education began at a young age, and in 1855, he relocated to France just prior to the onset of the Civil War. There, he refined his skills at the prestigious Paris Conservatoire and showcased his talents at Bordeaux’s Grand Theatre. His journeys also took him to Algeria, a French colony at the time, where he gained inspiration from the local populace’s struggles.
Dede’s life in America was marked by the severe racial segregation during the Jim Crow era. Following an unsuccessful attempt to perform in the U.S., where he faced systemic racism in accessing theaters, he returned to Europe, choosing to never set foot in his homeland again. Throughout his career, he composed an extensive body of work, totaling around 250 songs, ballets, and orchestral pieces. His magnum opus, “Morgiane,” spans an impressive 545 pages but remained unperformed during his lifetime.
The journey to revive “Morgiane” began in 2014 when Givonna Joseph and Aria Mason, founders of New Orleans Opera Creole, discovered a digital version of the opera. Their mission focuses on bringing the works of composers of African descent to contemporary audiences. Recognizing the importance of their find, Joseph felt an instinctive pull to share this music with the world.
In 2023, Patrick Quigley, artistic director of Washington, D.C.’s Opera Lafayette, joined Joseph in this endeavor. Together, they collaborated with musicians and historians nationwide to resurrect the opera after more than a century. The first step involved transcribing nearly 6,000 music measures into modern notation, allowing the musicians to finally bring Dede’s compositions to life.
Describing the music, Quigley remarked, “It’s this fabulous combination of so many different styles of music, both European and American all together in one place.” This rich blending of cultural influences is a hallmark of Dede’s work.
On January 24, excerpts from “Morgiane” were performed at the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, a venue significant to Dede as the site of his baptism. The complete opera had its debut at Opera Lafayette on February 3, marking an exceptional moment for both Washington, D.C. and the broader landscape of American music, as highlighted by Quigley’s enthusiasm at conducting the performance.
A brief tour followed, with performances in New York City and College Park, Maryland, which Joseph described as a kind of homecoming for Dede. “I think he’s a New Orleans hero,” she stated, reflecting the pride that the city rightfully holds for one of its own.
The revival of “Morgiane” not only honors the legacy of Edmond Dede but also shines a light on the rich tapestry of American musical heritage that continues to evolve and inspire future generations.
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www.cbsnews.com