The world premiere of “Pancho Rabbit and The Coyote,” a new opera by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Anthony Davis, captivated audiences on Saturday at the Southwestern College Performing Arts Center in Chula Vista, California. This production not only introduces a compelling narrative but also highlights pressing social issues, making it a significant milestone in contemporary opera.
The opera, inspired by the acclaimed 2011 children’s book by Duncan Tonatiuh, explores the journey of an 11-year-old rabbit named Pancho, who ventures from his rural home in Mexicali to find his father in El Norte. Accompanied by a cunning coyote, who serves both as a guide and an adversary, Pancho’s journey is fraught with peril. The proximity of the performance venue to the U.S.-Mexico border adds a poignant layer to the story, resonating with themes of migration and family separation.
This production marks a collaboration between Bodhi Tree Concerts and the University of California, San Diego, where Davis teaches. The opera features a rich cast, including the standout performances of Mariana Flores Bucio as Pancho and Victor Robertson as the Coyote. Bucio’s portrayal combines innocence with a powerful vocal delivery, suggesting a promising future in the performing arts. Robertson’s interpretation of the Coyote showcases a deep dive into the character’s moral complexities, particularly evident in his song about navigating life’s shortcuts.
Engaging Storytelling and Musical Brilliance
“Pancho Rabbit and The Coyote” is described as both an allegory and a parable, offering moments of fantasy interspersed with the harsh realities faced by undocumented migrant workers. The opera does not shy away from addressing significant issues such as social inequality and political challenges, making it relevant in today’s sociopolitical climate.
The music composed by Davis is a standout feature of the production. His innovative score blends various genres, including classical, cumbia, cha-cha, Norteno, salsa, and jazz. The 17-piece orchestra, which includes talented musicians such as trombonist Michael Dessen and violinist David Boroff, delivers a performance characterized by both precision and improvisational flair. The orchestration enhances the emotional depth of the story, creating an engaging experience for both children and adults.
The lyrics, crafted by librettist Allan Havis and translated into Spanish by Laura Fuentes, are displayed through supertitles, ensuring accessibility for a diverse audience. Havis’s poetic approach makes the language approachable for younger viewers while still resonating with older attendees.
Production Quality and Forward Momentum
The direction by Octavio Cardenas is noted for its clarity and effectiveness, allowing the emotional core of the story to shine through. The use of costumes, lighting, and set design further elevates the production, particularly the clever representation of a river using tulle fabric.
While the opera’s conclusion felt somewhat hurried, overall, the performances were well-received. The emotional and thematic depth of “Pancho Rabbit and The Coyote” has already set a high bar for future productions.
The relevance of the opera is underscored by the upcoming performance in Tijuana on January 31, 2024, where some roles will be performed by alternate singers due to concerns about crossing the border. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by artists and individuals in the region, emphasizing the opera’s timely commentary on migration and societal issues.
“Pancho Rabbit and The Coyote” has the potential to become a celebrated work in the operatic repertoire, much like Davis‘s previous operas, “X: The Life and Times of Malcolm X” and “The Central Park Five.” With its compelling storytelling, outstanding performances, and relevant themes, this new opera promises to resonate with audiences for years to come.
