The Tender Land

The Tender Land blends Aaron Copland?s music with a libretto by Erik Johns, also known as Horace Everett. Originally conceived for television, it was premiered by the New York City Opera and later revised for the stage.

The production, directed by Dr. Gayla Blaisdell, will be performed by students from Blaisdell?s CWU Opera Workshop. The workshop provides an opportunity for music students to learn about all aspects of stagecraft and performance, which culminates in a public performance. This year?s production of The Tender Land will be accompanied by the CWU Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Dr. Nikolas Caoile. 

The Tender Land tells the story of Laurie, a young girl growing up on a midwestern farm during the Great Depression. When two itinerant workers, Top and Martin, show up on the farm, Laurie quickly moves from childhood to adulthood as she prepares for her graduation, falls in love with Martin, and decides to leave the farm with him. Unfortunately, the townsfolk mistake Martin and Top for criminals and the two hastily leave without Laurie. Laurie must then choose between the security of home and the adventures of the new world beyond the farm that now beckon her.

Copland?s music provides an idyllic backdrop of open harmonies and folksy melodies ranging from a rhythmic barn dance, Stomp Your Foot, to the sublime vocal quintet, The Promise of Living.