Leithian: The Opera

[BerislavLopac]

Some time ago I had an idea to write the libretto for a Tolkien-based opera, and I even wrote down a synopsis of the basic plot. If I manage to find it on my backup CDs I'll share it with the rest of you.

The opera's title was supposed to be "Leithian: Release from Bondage", and it was, of course, a retelling of the the tale of Beren and Lúthien.

I broke the story into (IIRC) four acts: the first taking place in Doriath and depicting their meeting and Thingol's quest to Beren; the second takes place at Tol-in-Ngaurhoth, with the death of Finrod and defeat of Sauron; the third covers their journey towards Thangorodrim and taking of the Silmaril; and the fourth covers the rest of the tale, including the hunt for Carcharoth, Beren's death and Lúthien's song in the halls of Mandos.

Naturally, many things needed to be excluded, such as Lúthien's kidnapping by Feanor's sons, but those that remained were the core of the tale. I have decided for this particular tale because a) it was Tolkien's favorite (just consider the names at his an his wife's tombs), b) it is a most complete Silmarillion tale, c) it ends on a positive note, unlike most others (such as The Children of Hurin, or Nirnaeth Arnoediad, or Gondolin), d) it has classical qualities not unlike those found in the operas of Verdi, and e) it has excellent opportunities for both choir and solo acts, from the choirs of Doriath and Thangorodrim to the arias of Lúthien before Mandos or Finrod at his deathbed.

Anar kaluva tielyanna,

Berislav.