Composer Michael Abels On Bringing The Life Of Omar ibn Said To The Opera

What does it take to tell a story of faith, survival and humanity through opera? Omar is now onstage at Lyric Opera of Chicago, inspired by the extraordinary life and writings of Omar ibn Said, an Islamic scholar captured in West Africa and enslaved in South Carolina.

The Pulitzer Prize-winning score weaves together musical traditions that feel both deeply personal and distinctly American. In the Loop talks with one of the composers about bringing this powerful story to life.

GUEST: Michael Abels, Pulitzer Prize-winning co-composer, Omar

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