Libretto

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As part of The Phoenix Symphony's 60th Anniversary Season, the orchestra has commissioned a work to celebrate the vibrant musical and cultural heritage of Arizona. The world premiere performance of Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio will occur in February 2008. The oratorio depicts the journey of Seeker — a war veteran — as a contemporary retelling of the ancient Navajo story of Enemy Slayer. With the poetic skills of project librettist Laura Tohe, Enemy Slayer took shape; developing this story of spiritual battle and recovery, and adapting it to modern times. The inspiration and context of the work is explored through a four-week residency with composer Mark Grey. With English and Navajo language elements, western and Native American musical components, and a mix of both contemporary and ancient narratives, Enemy Slayer is a unique and inspiring musical journey.

As part of its residency program for Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio, The Phoenix Symphony will present artist masterclasses with composer Mark Grey and librettist Laura Tohe at Diné college, the higher education institution of the Navajo people. More about this project can be found at the Phoenix Symphony website.

An interview on the oratorio was broadcast on KJZZ in Phoenix. Listen below.


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There is a blog available for the Phoenix Symphony and Director, Michael Christie. The blog has a new video concerning Enemy Slayer.

Information on parking for performances is available at Copper Square. Look here for an interactive map.

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