Salsipuedes: a Tale of Love, War and Anchovies
| Salsipuedes: a Tale of Love, War and Anchovies | |
|---|---|
| Opera by Daniel Catán | |
| Librettist | |
| Language | Spanish |
| Premiere | 29 October 2004 Wortham Theater Center, Houston, Texas |
Salsipuedes: a Tale of Love, War and Anchovies is an opera in three acts by Daniel Catán with a Spanish libretto by Eliseo Alberto, Francisco Hinojosa and the composer. The opera was commissioned by the Houston Grand Opera and premiered on October 29, 2004.
Written as a tragicomedy, the work takes place in 1943 on a fictitious island in the Caribbean during World War II. Beginning with a double love story, two newlywed couples are mistakenly taken aboard an island ship where they get tangled in a plot by the corrupt government to sell the Nazis their most valuable commodity–anchovies. The work contains serious overtones and concludes with the newlyweds nearly losing their lives.
The work has no violins or violas and is noted for blending opera with Caribbean instruments and rhythms.
Scene 1
On the fictional Caribbean island of Salsipuedes, Ulises and Chucho, two famous musicians, have just married sisters Lucero and Magali. While celebrating in the courtyard of hotel Ambos Mundos, the Lieutenant arrives and interrupts the festivities, informing Ulises and Chucho that they must sing the national anthem at an upcoming event.
Scene 2
That evening inside the hotel, Ulises tries to console Lucero, who is upset by the interruption during the celebration. In the next room, Chucho is upset at being told what to do. He is consoled by Magali.
Scene 3
At the port, crowds gather in preparation of the re-christening of the ship "The Invincible". Sergeant Guzmán introduces General García, who steps up to the podium. The general announces that they are declaring war on Nazi Germany and that the ship will be used to defend the island. Ulises and Chucho step onto a platform behind the military band in preparation for the performance. After the general’s speech, the frigate begins to move from the dock. The two performers quickly realize the platform is attached not to land but to the ship, and that they are sailing off to sea.
Scene 1
Lucero and Magali are travelling port to port looking for their husbands. Unsuccessful, they share their frustrations and ruminate on how they will get back at their husbands for leaving them.
Scene 2
Inside the hold of The Invincible, the two musicians complain to Captain Magallanes, asking him to let them off the ship. Describing the greatness and rhythm of the sea, the captain refuses to return the ship to shore. Soon he leaves and Ulises and Chucho discover large quantities of anchovies on the ship.
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