A Thousand Splendid Suns Tickets

A Thousand Splendid Suns By Khaled Hosseini

The critically acclaimed author Khaled Hosseini hails from Kabul, Afghanistan and most of stories are set in the region. Having released four books, The Kite Runner, A Thousand Splendid Suns, And the Mountains Echoed, and Sea Prayer, Hosseini focuses love and relationships, the value of life, and gender oppression. A Thousand Splendid Suns is a classic mother-daughter story set in odd circumstances, highlighting the importance of acceptance and welcoming unexpected relationships.

In 2012, after a lot of back-and-forth communication, Khaled Hosseini gave the adaptation rights of his novel to American composer Sheila Silver. To give it the best representation, Silver studied Hindustani music and set out to create an opera score that would compliment the theme.

Characterization & Leading Ladies

The libretto by Stephen Kitsakos beautifully captures the dramatic tension in the plot as the audiences are introduced to a five-year old Mariam. Played by actress Karin Mushegain, the mezzo-soprano digs deep into the bitterness and resentfulness of Mariam as she struggles in a love-less, violent marriage. Her transition towards softness after understanding and befriending Laila, is captivating.

Laila, played by Maureen McKay, is the second and much younger wife of Rasheed, the male antagonist of the story. John Moore steps into the shoes of Rasheed, portraying a man who resonates to violence that’s bolstered by his support of the Taliban. Laila’s personality is completely different than Mariam’s, driven by education and idealism. A resilient and brave woman, her strong personality has a positive influence on Mariam.

Another important character in the story is Tariq, Laila’s ex-finance who had to feel the country due to war. The role is performed by tenor, Rafael Moras. 

Seattle Opera Presents A Thousand Splendid Suns

All set for February 2023 premiere, the McCaw Hall will be hosting the opera that will tell the unflinching story of two Afghani women. According to the information released about the rehearsals, the opera effectively manages the time-bending plot. All the actors give standout performances, capturing the raw emotion required by the role. One of the best representations of culture, time, place, and relationships, Sheila Silver’s adaption does complete justice to Khaled Hosseini’s masterpiece.

When do A Thousand Splendid Suns tickets begin sale?

Seattle Opera: A Thousand Splendid Suns tickets have begun sales and can easily be purchased now.

How long is A Thousand Splendid Suns opera?

The performance time for A Thousand Splendid Suns opera is approximately 3 hours which includes one intermission.

Who is the director of the opera A Thousand Splendid Suns?

A Thousand Splendid Suns is directed by Roya Sadat, an Afghani film director and producer.

Is there a lot of violence in opera, A Thousand Splendid Suns?

Sheila Silver’s version of A Thousand Splendid Suns shows violence in the form of   oppression, fear, and aggression towards your spouse.