Libretto by J D McClatchy based on Thornton Wilder (E)
Major roles: 2S,2M,3T,Bar,B; Minor roles: S,4T (from chorus); SATB chorus
2.1.2.1-2.1.0.0-pft-strings
Abbreviations (PDF)
Boosey & Hawkes
"...one of those rare new operas that seem destined to survive." —Musical America
"An intimate chamber opera to match the play's spareness... Rorem's music is accessible, singable, and full of integrity." —New York Times
"Langorous melodic lines or fragments, often with an unmistakable Americana flavour, interact in the orchestra, and the vocal parts engagingly follow suit. If Wilder's play is to have music, Rorem's is credible and often exquisite." —Financial Times
“Our Town … asserts without a doubt the genius of both composer and playwright … Rorem’s operatic version is a masterpiece of American music” —Theater Jones
