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Home Sounds Like” Is both a love song and a call to action. Is both centering and celebrating the joys of growing up in Chicago and the horrors of the often harsh reality perpetually marginalized bodies succumb. Writer Darius R. Parker wanted to capture as much of this as he could while penning the lyrics to this work and bringing forth the themes of activism, centering youth voices and his family while still discussing issues such as police brutality. Listeners may feel joy, hurt, sorrow or inspiration while sitting with this piece and that, is the goal.

Composer Seth Boustead based the accompanying cello part primarily on the rhythmic patterns of Darius’ narrative style but with an ear toward the narrative arc as well. The cello rises and falls with Darius’ cadences supporting him but also reacting to what is being said.

Cast

Artistic Team

Concept/Director
Concept/Commissioning/Music Direction
Concept/Editor
Supported by The MacArthur Funds for Arts and Culture at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation, The CityArts Grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs & Special Events, & the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Chicago Fringe Opera is an Opera America Partner.