Book of Mountains and Seas

Composer: Huang Ruo
Librettist: Huang Ruo
Company: Chicago Opera Theater

Synopsis

Book of Mountains & Seas is a work of vocal-theatre for 12 singers, two percussionists, and puppets. It is inspired by the ancient Chinese compilation of early myths of the same title, which was first transcribed in 4th century B.C. Over the years, these mythological stories have become part of Chinese written and oral history, shifted and reshaped to match contemporary times. Book of Mountains and Seas is a 21st-century adaptation through the lens of our modern-day relationship with the natural world. The creation stories conjure a sense of respect and awe for the environment and the water stories challenge us to be good stewards of the natural resources we have been given.

"An exquisite masterpiece of suggestion, an immersive tapestry of sound and image that weaves itself into your consciousness and makes its point about the interdependence of humans and their planet without ever saying it outright." - Wall Street Journal