Missing (opera)

Missing is an opera in one act by composer Michelle DiBucci, with a libretto by Ireneusz Głowacki. It premiered in 2017. The opera tells the story of a mother searching for her missing daughter, exploring themes of loss, grief, and the complexities of memory and hope in the face of unimaginable circumstances.

The narrative is non-linear, weaving together fragmented memories, dreams, and present-day realities to reflect the mother's emotional state. The libretto incorporates elements of poetry and spoken word, adding to the opera's evocative and emotionally charged atmosphere. DiBucci's score utilizes a blend of contemporary classical music techniques, including dissonance and atonality, alongside moments of lyrical beauty, mirroring the protagonist's shifting moods and the unsettling nature of her experience.

Missing has been praised for its poignant portrayal of parental grief and its innovative approach to storytelling through music and text. The opera's intimate scale and focus on the internal world of its characters contribute to its powerful emotional impact.