Mae Naak (opera)
Encyclopedia
Mae Naak is a 2003 opera
composed by Thai composer Somtow Sucharitkul to an English libretto
based on one of Thailand's best known ghost stories Mae Nak Phra Khanong. The story is also the basis for Nonzee Nimibutr
's popular film Nang Nak
.
The opera's title role was created by Hong Kong born soprano Nancy Yuen
who reprised the role in a 2005 production at the Thailand Cultural Center, directed by Henry Akina, artistic director of the Hawaii Opera Theatre
. Both productions were designed by prominent Thai avant-garde artist Sumet Jumsai.
The opera's London premiere was on September 15, 2011, at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London. Nancy Yuen again reprised the role. The 2003 production was revived by Stefan Sanchez and the opera was conducted by Trisdee na Patalung
.
Opera
Opera is an art form in which singers and musicians perform a dramatic work combining text and musical score, usually in a theatrical setting. Opera incorporates many of the elements of spoken theatre, such as acting, scenery, and costumes and sometimes includes dance...
composed by Thai composer Somtow Sucharitkul to an English libretto
Libretto
A libretto is the text used in an extended musical work such as an opera, operetta, masque, oratorio, cantata, or musical. The term "libretto" is also sometimes used to refer to the text of major liturgical works, such as mass, requiem, and sacred cantata, or even the story line of a...
based on one of Thailand's best known ghost stories Mae Nak Phra Khanong. The story is also the basis for Nonzee Nimibutr
Nonzee Nimibutr
Nonzee Nimibutr is a Thai film director, film producer and screenwriter. Best known for his ghost thriller, Nang Nak, he is generally credited as the leader among a "New Wave" of Thai filmmakers that also includes Pen-Ek Ratanaruang, Wisit Sasanatieng and Apichatpong...
's popular film Nang Nak
Nang Nak
Nang Nak is a romantic tragedy and horror film directed by Nonzee Nimibutr in 1999 through Buddy Film and Video Production Co. in Thailand, based on a legend. It features the life of a devoted ghost wife and the unsuspecting husband.-Plot:...
.
The opera's title role was created by Hong Kong born soprano Nancy Yuen
Nancy Yuen
Nancy Yuen is a Chinese operatic soprano.-Life and career:Nancy Yuen Miu Fun was born in Hong Kong, reportedly in 1967. She is a top graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, London, and has based her career in the United Kingdom and Singapore. She has made Cio-cio-san her signature role, winning...
who reprised the role in a 2005 production at the Thailand Cultural Center, directed by Henry Akina, artistic director of the Hawaii Opera Theatre
Hawaii Opera Theatre
The Hawaii Opera Theatre is an opera company located in Honolulu, Hawaii, which became active in 1961. The company typically performs three operas during February and March in Blaisdell Concert Hall...
. Both productions were designed by prominent Thai avant-garde artist Sumet Jumsai.
The opera's London premiere was on September 15, 2011, at the Bloomsbury Theatre in London. Nancy Yuen again reprised the role. The 2003 production was revived by Stefan Sanchez and the opera was conducted by Trisdee na Patalung
Trisdee na Patalung
Trisdee na Patalung is a Thai composer and conductor. He is the Music Director of the Bangkok Baroque Ensemble and the Resident Conductor of the Orpheus Choir of Bangkok....
.