Dolores Claiborne (opera)

Dolores Claiborne is an opera composed by Tobias Picker with a libretto by J.D. McClatchy, based on the 1992 novel of the same name by Stephen King. The opera tells the story of Dolores Claiborne, an elderly woman living on Little Tall Island, Maine, who is suspected of murdering her wealthy and unpleasant employer, Vera Donovan. The narrative unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day interrogations, revealing a complex history of abuse, hardship, and ultimately, sacrifice.

The opera premiered in January 2013 at the San Francisco Opera. It is a full-length work, typically performed in three acts, although some productions have presented it in two. The score features a mix of contemporary operatic styles, including moments of heightened drama and lyrical reflection. The libretto closely follows the themes and plot points of King's novel, exploring themes of guilt, innocence, the bonds between mothers and daughters, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The character of Dolores Claiborne is a demanding role for a dramatic soprano, requiring both vocal power and acting ability to portray the character's strength and vulnerability. Vera Donovan, usually a mezzo-soprano, is also a significant role, embodying the manipulative and ultimately pitiable figure who dominates Dolores' life. Other key characters include Joe St. George, Dolores' abusive husband, and Selena St. George, Dolores' estranged daughter, a successful journalist struggling with her own past.

The opera has received generally positive reviews for its dramatic intensity, Picker's evocative score, and McClatchy's faithful adaptation of King's novel. Performances and recordings have helped to establish Dolores Claiborne as a noteworthy addition to the contemporary operatic repertoire.