Wayang Esther: A Javanese Purimspiel
Barbara Benary
About this work:
Taken from the biblical story of Esther, the Megillah read at the holiday of Purim, viewed with a humanistic political interpretation. The vocal score of soloists/chorus may be sung by SATB or more voices. The accompaniment is Javanese gamelan. Esther may be performed as an oratorio alone, or as intended with enactment by wayang kulit shadow puppets of Java.
Year composed: 2001
Duration: 02:00:80
Ensemble type: Opera/Theater:Chamber Opera, Two or More Singers
Instrumentation:
Instrumentation notes: 6 member Javanese gamelan playing slendro and pelog keyboards with tuned gongs and drums. Alternately orchestration may be adapted for a diatonic ensemble of piano, marimba, vibraphone, synthesizer, hand drums and flute or other melody instruments.