Overview
Synopsis
Billy Budd is proud to be a new sailor aboard the H.M.S. Indomitable. Nevertheless, Billy's strength, confidence, and ability threaten the evil Master-at-arms, John Claggart. Claggart takes it upon himself to have his lackeys torment Billy. When this effort fails, Claggart goes to Captain Vere and accuses Billy of organizing a mutiny. While Vere does not believe Claggart, he is forced to call Billy in to face his accuser. Unable to speak due to his shock, Billy simply punches Claggart in the face, killing him. To the dismay of the crew and many officers, Billy is hanged for the crime.
Show Information
- Music
- Benjamin Britten
- Category
- Opera
- Age Guidance
- Youth (Y)/General Audiences (G)
- Number of Acts
- 2
- Genres
- Cast Size
- large
- Licensor
- None/royalty-free
- Ideal For
- All-Male Cast, Includes Adult, Mature Adult, Young Adult, Late Teen, Early Teen Characters, Large Cast
Context
Plot
Characters
| Name | Part Size | Gender | Vocal Part |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lead |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Lead |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Lead |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Bass |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Bass |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Supporting |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Bass |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Tenor |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
|
|
Featured |
Male |
Baritone |
Songs
A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number; a character listed in a song with an asterisk (*) by the character's name indicates that the character exclusively serves as a dancer in this song, which is sung by other characters.
Monologues
Scenes
Key Terms
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Videos
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Quizzes
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Themes, Symbols & Motifs
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Quote Analysis
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