Opera Philadelphia’s recent production of Soldier Songs offers a stark and necessary reminder of the enduring impact of war, not just on soldiers, but on society as a whole. Having also witnessed Pittsburgh Opera’s compelling filmed rendition of the same opera last December, the resonance of this work, regardless of presentation format, is undeniable. Pittsburgh Opera’s production, initially planned for a live, socially-distanced audience, was unfortunately shifted to a filmed dress rehearsal due to a post-Thanksgiving COVID-19 surge. Despite its multimedia strengths and Yazid Gray’s powerful baritone performance, personal timing and the weight of the subject matter prevented an immediate response then.
The reluctance stemmed from a deeply personal connection to the themes explored in Soldier Songs. For many of a certain generation, the Vietnam War cast a long shadow. Divided into those who served and those who didn’t, the era was marked by the constant threat of conscription and the palpable impact of war on families and communities. Daily media coverage brought the conflict into living rooms, while returning Vietnam veterans faced unwarranted stigma instead of the honor they deserved. While some might consider this history, Opera Philadelphia rightly points out that for a 20-year-old today, the United States has always been a nation at war. Soldier Songs taps into these raw nerves, and its relevance persists.
Another factor influencing the delay in engaging with Soldier Songs was the holiday season. The opera is an intense, hour-long immersion into the experience of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Amidst the pandemic-induced gloom of last December, the desire for festive cheer overshadowed the willingness to delve into the painful realities of war’s human cost. The spirit of “Jingle Bells” and holiday decorations simply felt more resonant than confronting the darkness of PTSD. However, with Christmas past and the hope of a receding pandemic thanks to vaccine distribution, the space to grapple with these difficult themes has reopened. The unfortunate truth remains: war and its profound consequences for young service members, their families, and the national psyche are ongoing concerns. Regrettably, Soldier Songs and its powerful message are likely to remain perpetually relevant.
Image alt text: Baritone Yazid Gray delivers a poignant performance in Pittsburgh Opera’s production of Soldier Songs, embodying the opera’s exploration of veteran experiences.
