Edmond Dédé’s Opera, “Morgiane,” Set for Historic Stage Premiere in 2025 The first complete opera by a Black American, hidden in a single manuscript for over 130 years, is finally making it’s Premiere this week in Washington, DC. Edmond Dédé (1827–1901), a free born African American from New Orleans and pioneering composer of the 19th…
Edmond Dédé’s Opera, “Morgiane,” Set for Historic Stage Premiere in 2025
The first complete opera by a Black American, hidden in a single manuscript for over 130 years, is finally making it’s Premiere this week in Washington, DC. Edmond Dédé (1827–1901), a free born African American from New Orleans and pioneering composer of the 19th century, is finally receiving the recognition he deserves. His opera, Morgiane, ou, Le Sultan d’Ispahan—a four act French grand opera on themes from Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves—is set to make its long-awaited stage premiere in February 2025. Morgiane has largely remained in obscurity after languishing, hidden away and unrecognized, for over a century.
This upcoming stage premiere is a historic moment, as it brings together two distinguished opera organizations committed to preserving and celebrating underrepresented composers. This landmark production, a collaboration between Opera Lafayette, known for its dedication to historically informed performances, and OperaCréole, founded in 2011 to highlight the works of 19th-century Creoles of New Orleans, will give the World Premiere of Dédé’s fully staged masterpiece in Washington, DC in a majority-Black production, 138 years after its composition, highlighting the significance of this project in recognizing Black composers and expanding the operatic canon.
Washington, DC
Lincoln Theatre: Monday, February 3, 2025, 7:00 PM
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center: Friday, Feb 7, 2025, 7:00PM
Tickets
The fully stage premiere follows a successful preview of excerpts from Morgiane at a concert held at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on January 24, 2025. This performance generated excitement and anticipation for the February debut, drawing music historians, opera enthusiasts, and cultural advocates eager to witness the revival of a long-lost masterpiece.
Who Was Edmond Dédé?
Edmond Dédé (1827–1901) was a groundbreaking African American composer who left New Orleans for France to escape racial barriers and develop his musical career. There, he flourished as a musician, studying at the prestigious Paris Conservatory and composing nearly 100 critically acclaimed orchestral works, chamber music, and operas for the French stage. His music blended European classical traditions with influences from his Creole heritage, creating a unique and compelling sound.
Despite his extraordinary talent, critical acclaim and popularity, much of his work remained overshadowed by the dominant European composers of his time. However, his compositions, particularly Morgiane, showcase a mastery of orchestration and operatic storytelling that deserve a place in the standard repertoire.
The Plot
Dédé’s Morgiane, ou, Le Sultan d’Ispahan is a lyrical opera set in the exotic landscape of Persia. The plot follows the story of Morgiane, a courageous and intelligent woman navigating political intrigue and romance within the Sultan’s court. The opera showcases Dédé’s gift for rich melodic writing and dynamic orchestration, weaving elements of French grand opera with touches of Middle Eastern-inspired motifs.
Diversity in Classical Music is Essential
The upcoming production of Morgiane is more than just a long-overdue staging—it is a celebration of diversity in classical music and an acknowledgment of the rich but overlooked contributions of Black composers in the genre. By showcasing Morgiane in a majority Black production, Opera Lafayette and OperaCréole are making a powerful statement about the importance of representation and diversity in the performing arts.
Dédé’s opera is not just a historical curiosity; it is a vital piece of musical heritage that challenges the traditional Eurocentric narrative of classical music history. Its revival could open doors for deeper explorations of Black composers’ contributions to opera and classical music at large.
Modern audiences are increasingly seeking diverse and previously overlooked compositions. With contemporary opera companies embracing lesser-known works, Morgiane, ou, Le Sultan d’Ispahan presents an exciting opportunity for rediscovery.
Looking Ahead
Efforts to bring Dédé’s music back to the stage are gaining momentum. Scholars and musicians dedicated to championing forgotten works are beginning to shine a light on composers like Dédé. With further research, recordings, and performances, Morgiane has the potential to captivate new audiences and restore Dédé’s rightful place in classical music history. The revival of Morgiane represents a step forward in the ongoing effort to acknowledge and celebrate Black composers’ contributions to classical music.
As we continue to expand the repertoire and celebrate diverse voices, works like Morgiane, ou, Le Sultan d’Ispahan serve as reminders of the richness and inclusivity that classical music should embody.
For those passionate about opera and musical history, this is an event not to be missed. The premiere of Morgiane in February 2025 promises to be a landmark occasion, shedding light on a composer whose brilliance has long been overshadowed but is now finally stepping into the spotlight.
Washington, DC
Lincoln Theatre: Monday, February 3, 2025, 7:00 PM
The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center: Friday, Feb 7, 2025, 7:00PM
Tickets
