Based on the bestselling 1993 memoir by Sister Helen Prejean, the opera tells the powerful story of her difficult journey providing spiritual guidance to a death row inmate at Louisiana State Penitentiary facing imminent execution, the troubling impact on the families of the victims, and the issue of the death penalty in our society. With a brilliant libretto by Terrance McNally and a dramatic and incredibly lyric musical setting by Jake Heggie, this opera is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. The memoir was the basis for the award-winning 1995 film starring Susan Sarandon and Sean Penn. Jake Heggie is widely considered one of the great living opera composers. Music by Jake Heggie (b. 1961) Libretto by Terrance McNally (b. 1938) Based on the memoir by Sister Helen Prejean (b. 1939) Sung in English with English surtitles Ryan Murray, Conductor Company and Central Valley Premiere Contact : Gallo Center Phone : 209-338-2100 Email : Web Site : galloarts.org