Captured in the tradition of American tonal concert music, “TRIBUTARIES: A
Modern Cantata”, explores man’s biological and technological dependence on water, as
well as the many life enabling and yet threatening powers of water. From the perspective
of three of Eastern Pennsylvania’s many tributaries, each of which converge into the
Schuylkill River, the audience is immersed in water and the life and times of nearby
inhabitants, through a unique and site-specific musical performance.
A four act cantata: (each inspired by the distinct characteristics of the “Manatawny”,
“Tulpehocken”, “Maiden”, and “Schuylkill”), TRIBUTARIES features solo and ensemble
performances of some of Philadelphia’s brightest vocal talent, and an octet of diverse
musicians.
Composer and conductor Craig Hendrix, founder of The Agave Opera Company,
collaborated with film composers Brooke and Will Blair to bring TRIBUTARIES to
life. Together with Habithèque, Inc. and countless gifted collaborators, the team is
excited to present an exclusive performance in The Water Work's “New Mill House”, a
hidden Philadelphia structure flooded with history and infinite potential.
