Spirituals are the very foundation, the root of all the great music that we know and love today.”
– Tazewell Thompson (Creator & Director)
Created and directed by Tazewell Thompson
Vocal arrangements by Dianne Adams McDowell
Orchestrated by Michael Ellis Ingram
A world premiere opera. Not long after Emancipation and the end of the Civil War, the historic Fisk Jubilee Singers came together and changed music forever. Telling the story of the ensemble's early members, this opera—which includes over 40 African American spirituals—follows them on their first tours, raising funds for the fledgling Fisk University and spreading their music around the world. From threats of violence to a pivotal performance for Queen Victoria, the singers share their personal histories through powerful vignettes full of humor, heartbreak, and hope.
Featuring an enduring storyline by renowned writer and director Tazewell Thompson (Blue ’22), Jubilee showcases 13 singers performing spirituals such as “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” “Balm In Gilead,” “Deep River,” “Go Down, Moses,” “On Ma Journey Now,” “Wade In The Water,” “Steal Away,” “Didn’t My Lord Deliver Daniel,” and many more. Originally conceived, written, and performed by enslaved peoples these powerful and popular pieces have been an integral part of American music throughout history.
Also available in a 2024/25 season package.