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Preview: Arizona Opera Set to World Premiere Western ‘Riders of the Purple Sage’ in February 2017

Riders of the Purple Sage - Arizona Opera
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David Salazar

Medium: Print

Arizona Opera presents the world premiere of "Riders of the Peruple Sage" this February.

Based on the classic novel by Zane Grey, the opera tells the story of the unconventional relationship between a devout Mormon and a vengeful cowboy. The work explores themes such as women’s rights, vigilante justice and religious fundamentalism among others.

The world premiere takes place on February 26, 2017 at the Tuscon Music Hall. Three performances in March will be showcased at Symphony Hall in Phoenix.

“[Riders] embodies the elements and atmosphere of the classic American West. The horses, the guns, the heroines, the bandits, the rustlers—all of the elements iconic to this eternally endearing genre are brought to life in a new way on the operatic stage.”

– Craig Bohmler, composer