Voodoo (opera)

Voodoo is an opera in four acts by composer Harry Lawrence Freeman to a libretto by the composer. It is considered the first grand opera written by an African-American composer to be produced in the United States.

The opera tells the story of Lolo, a young woman in Louisiana who uses voodoo to gain the love of Placide, a Creole man. The plot involves themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the destructive power of unchecked desires.

Voodoo premiered in New York City in 1928 at the Mecca Temple. Subsequent productions occurred in various cities, including Chicago and Cleveland. While initially receiving some critical attention and recognition, the opera faced challenges in achieving widespread and sustained performance.

Freeman dedicated much of his career to promoting African-American composers and performers. Voodoo stands as a significant work in the history of American opera, highlighting the intersection of African-American musical traditions and European operatic forms. It represents an important contribution to the development of a distinctly American operatic voice and contributes to a broader understanding of the cultural landscape of the early 20th century.