Barcelona, Map of Shadows
Opera · In development · Planned premiere fall 2027
I am composing Barcelona, Map of Shadows with librettist and director Mallory Catlett, adapting the play by Catalan playwright Lluïsa Cunillé. The opera is being developed with the International Contemporary Ensemble, Mabou Mines and The American Opera Project.
The full production is planned for NYU Skirball in New York in fall 2027. Exact performance dates and booking information will be added when announced.
Development and preview
On March 18, 2026, AOP and Mabou Mines presented excerpts to an invited audience. Patricia Schuman and Damian Norfleet sang selected music, paired with film by Bill Morrison using archival images of the Spanish Civil War. Music director and conductor Rebekah Heller and the International Contemporary Ensemble are collaborators in the opera’s development.
This was a preview of the work in progress, rather than the full premiere. Full-production casting will be announced separately.
Creative team
Music: Mikael Karlsson
Libretto and direction: Mallory Catlett
Based on the play by: Lluïsa Cunillé
Development partners: International Contemporary Ensemble, Mabou Mines and The American Opera Project