Wake (opera)

Wake is an opera composed by Giorgio Battistelli, with a libretto by Paul Griffiths. It was commissioned by the Birmingham Opera Company and premiered in Birmingham, England, in March 2018.

The opera explores themes of memory, identity, and the impact of history on the present. The narrative centres around the discovery of human remains buried beneath a construction site in Birmingham, and how this event forces the characters to confront their past and their relationships with each other. The libretto interweaves fragments of historical texts with contemporary dialogue, creating a layered and complex narrative tapestry.

Battistelli's score for Wake incorporates a diverse range of musical styles, blending contemporary classical techniques with elements of jazz, rock, and electronic music. The opera is notable for its use of unusual instrumentation and vocal techniques, reflecting the diverse backgrounds and perspectives of the characters.

Wake is often considered a site-specific opera, as its original staging in Birmingham deliberately integrated the industrial landscape of the city into the production. This element contributes to the opera's immersive quality and reinforces its thematic concerns.