Ransom

Abstract

Ransom is an opera in two acts based on the short story The Ransom of Red Chief by O. Henry. A gang of robbers plot their final heist before retiring. During the job, they are discovered and attempt to make a hasty retreat. In the mayhem, one of their own is captured and they kidnap the Sheriff’s two children in return. It turns out that the children are a handful and the criminals are unable to hold onto them any longer. In exchange for getting rid of the kids, they turn themselves in. The opera is written for nine roles and a chorus. The work is accompanied by a chamber orchestra of ten musicians. In its entirety, Ransom lasts approximately one hour and 45 minutes.