Shadowboxer (opera)

Shadowboxer is an opera composed by Frank Proto with a libretto by John Chenault. It is a two-act work exploring themes of identity, memory, and the struggle to overcome adversity, framed within the context of boxing.

The opera centers around the character of Charlie "Pops" Davenport, an aging former boxer grappling with dementia and the fragmented recollections of his past. As his memories blur, Charlie revisits key moments in his life, including his boxing career, his relationships, and the choices that shaped his destiny. The opera blends realistic scenes with dreamlike sequences, blurring the lines between past and present, reality and illusion.

Shadowboxer incorporates elements of jazz, blues, and contemporary classical music, reflecting the diverse influences on the protagonist's life and the gritty atmosphere of the boxing world. The libretto utilizes poetic and evocative language to delve into the psychological complexities of the characters and the emotional weight of their experiences.

The opera has received performances by various opera companies and has been noted for its exploration of challenging subject matter and its emotionally resonant score.