The Legend of Kayumars (Opera)

Background

“The Legend of Kayumars” is an opera composed by Afshin Khaef, with a libretto also by Khaef. This English-language opera premiered on May 11, 2024, in Stockholm, Sweden.[1] The work draws upon ancient Persian mythology, specifically the tale of Kayumars, the first king of Persia, as chronicled in historical and mythological texts.

Overview

“The Legend of Kayumars” is an opera that portrays the ancient Persian tale of Kayumars, whose reign is marked by both prosperity and tragedy. The story begins with the establishment of Kayumars’ kingdom and the joy it brings to his people. However, darkness looms as Ahriman, the embodiment of evil, becomes envious of Kayumars’ glory and sends his formidable son, the Black Deev, to challenge him. This sets off a tragic sequence of events where Kayumars’ son, Siamak, falls in battle. Devastated by his loss, Kayumars’ sorrow casts a shadow over the land. Ultimately, the arrival of Hushang, Siamak’s son, and a final battle against the Deevs restore peace and light to the realm. The opera concludes with a triumphant celebration of the kingdom’s renewed harmony and the dawn of a new era under Hushang’s rule.

Characters

  • Kayumars: The first king of Persia, chosen by Ahura Mazda.
  • Siamak: Kayumars’ beloved son and valiant warrior.
  • Hushang: Siamak’s son, who avenges his father’s death.
  • Ahriman: The embodiment of evil, envious of Kayumars.
  • Black Deev: Ahriman’s formidable son, who leads the army against Kayumars.
  • Guardian Angel: The divine protector who guides Kayumars.
  • Narrator: Provides context and commentary throughout the opera.
  • People: Represent the citizens of Persia, participating in various scenes to reflect the collective emotions and reactions of the kingdom under Kayumars’ rule.
 

Synopsis

Act I: The Dawn of the First Kingdom
  • Overture I: The opera begins with a sweeping overture that sets a majestic and timeless tone.
  • Narrator (recitative): The Narrator introduces the setting: a time before time, where the god of goodness, Ahura Mazda, decides to crown Kayumars as the first king of Persia, establishing the first dynasty of human history.
  • Kingdom: The People celebrate the beginning of the first Kingdom, praising Ahura Mazda and Kayumars. The land is filled with justice and brightness.
  • Kayumars’ Introduction: Kayumars questions the people about his identity, leading to a vibrant exchange showcasing his origins and the admiration his people have for him.
  • Speranzoso: The Narrator describes the homage paid to Kayumars by all creatures and beings, highlighting his benevolent rule and the harmony in the kingdom.
  • Blue Caspian I: A lyrical depiction of the beauty of Kayumars’ realm, from the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf, where peace and love reign supreme.
  • Kayumars’ Theme[2]: A lighthearted interaction where Kayumars attempts to sing, only to be corrected by the Narrator for unintentionally plagiarizing a famous tune. This showcases Kayumars’ character and humor.
  • Kayumars’ Anthem: Kayumars and the People sing about the unity and glory of their nation under his rule, emphasizing peace, courage, and justice.
 
Act II: The Shadow of Darkness
  • Narrator (recitative): Ahriman, the embodiment of evil, grows envious of Kayumars’ glory and commands his son, the Black Deev, to lead an army against Kayumars and his son Siamak.
  • Interlude I: The Guardian Angel, who protects humans from Ahriman, learns of the impending danger and warns Kayumars, who prepares his son Siamak for battle.
  • Fear: Kayumars and the People express their fears and hopes as Siamak prepares to face the powerful Deevs, stepping into his inevitable fate.
  • Narrator (recitative): The battle is depicted as an unfair war between darkness and light, with Siamak bravely confronting the Deevs.
  • Battle: A powerful and dramatic depiction of the battle, where Siamak exerts all his strength but is ultimately defeated by the mightier Deev.
  • Adolorato: Kayumars and the People mourn the death of Siamak. The kingdom is plunged into deep sorrow, and Kayumars is crushed by grief.
Act III: The Triumph of Light
  • Interlude II: The forces of light, including Peris and wild beasts, march against the Deevs, who are quaking in fear.
  • Interlude III: In a climactic battle, Hushang leads the forces to victory, defeating the Black Deev. The Guardian Angel proclaims the victory, bringing peace and mercy back to the land.
  • Victory: The People celebrate the victory and the restoration of peace. Kayumars places Hushang on the throne, ushering in a new era as he embraces his own end.
  • Blue Caspian II: The opera concludes with a hymn celebrating the beauty and unity of Persia, from the Caspian Sea to the Persian Gulf, where peace and love now reign once more. The People ring the bells of victory, singing praises for their land and their new king, Hushang.

References

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