Francis: An Oratorio in Nine Scenes

Experience a major world premiere as the BPO brings Richard Danielpour’s Francis: An Oratorio in Nine Scenes to life — an expansive new work inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and marking the 800th anniversary of his death. Through orchestra, chorus, soloists, and narration, the oratorio explores compassion, transformation, care for creation, and the search for meaning in a divided world. Conducted by JoAnn Falletta, with a libretto by Sr. Margaret Carney and narration by Claudia Christian, Francis brings together powerful musical and dramatic forces for a story that feels both ancient and urgently present. Sweeping in sound and intimate in reflection, this world premiere invites us to consider what it means to live with purpose, empathy, and connection in our own time. Program WORLD PREMIERE Inspired by the life of St. Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of his death. Richard Danielpour, composer Sr. Margaret Carney, librettist JoAnn Falletta, conductor Claudia Christian, narrator (Angel) Edward Nelson, baritone (Francis) Anna Schubert, soprano (St. Clare) Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus Fredonia Chamber Choir Vernon Huff, chorus director RICHARD DANIELPOUR Francis: An Oratorio in Nine Scenes Scene I: Voce Mea! Scene II: The Answer… Scene III: Is he Insane? Scene IV: Sanctus Interlude: Prelude to Scene V Scene VI: Creation-Bethlehem Scene VII: Dark Angels Scene VIII: The Death of Francis Scene IX: Epilogue: Canticle of the Sun