Music by: Kamala Sankaram
Libretto by: Susan Yankowitz
Duration: 90 mins
Commissioned by Beth Morrison Projects and HERE Arts Center for PROTOTYPE Festival, 2014
Project Statement
Thumbprint is inspired by the extraordinary transformation of Mukhtar Mai, a young woman whose world was shattered by an act of brutality that could have destroyed her. Instead, she discovers a weapon—her voice—and against all odds, to the astonishment of her country and herself, she seeks justice and finds it. “The worst thing in my life is also the best,” she says. “It has given my life meaning.” Her journey resonates beyond borders in its implicit belief that even in the darkest times, one person, one voice, through a single act of courage, can change life for thousands. The story is told through a dynamic score by Kamala Sankaram, filled with Hindustani and European opera influences, and a libretto by Susan Yankowitz, originating from a series of interviews with Mai.
FORCES
Singers:
Mukhtar - Lyric Coloratura Soprano
Mother/Minister/Reporter - Mezzo-soprano
Father/Judge/Reporter/Mastoi - Bass-baritone
Faiz/Police Chief/Reporter/Villager - Tenor
Shakur/Imam/Reporter/Mastoi/Villager - Tenor
Annu (Also plays Young Girl/Reporter) - Soprano
Orchestra:
Flute
Violin
Viola
Upright Bass
Piano/Harmonium
Drumkit/Tabla/Dhol
MEDIA
