Information: Being Dead (Libretto by Sean C. jones)

Written By Mike Youd

Synopsis

Staff Sergeant Manuel (Manny) Ramirez is struggling with the aftermath of the Second Battle of Fallujah (Nov-Dec 2004). One of his best Soldiers was severely injured and another, who happened to be his best friend, was killed. Manny blames himself for their losses and is suicidal with survivor's guilt. In the process of sharing his trauma with his therapist we see the aftereffects of war on Manny, his two Soldiers, and their families. Being Dead explores the wounds, visible and invisible, our Veterans carry and the challenges they and their families face for the rest of their lives.

Forces

Manny Ramirez: Mexican American tenor

Maria Ramirez: Mexican American mezzo soprano

James Smith: Black baritone missing at least one leg below the knee who can use prosthesis

Charles Walker: Black bass baritone in his late sixties or early seventies

Chaplain Dominik Thomas: bass

Tina Parker: soprano

Baritones or mezzo sopranos: 

SFC Bryce or Laylani Jackson

Dr Derek or Madelynn Palmer

Marybeth or Bill Cooper

Duration

2 hours plus intermission

History

Workshopped in the Guerrilla Opera Writing Lab, 2025-2026

Currently seeking a composer to complete the project.

Contact

Sean Jones: sean.c.jones67@gmail.com

Mike Youd