Set in 1980s Louisiana, Dead Man Walking concerns the relationship between a death row inmate, Joseph De Rocher, and the nun, Sister Helen, who gives him love and support. Even though Joseph has committed a horrible crime and the public has condemned him, Sister Helen agrees to be his spiritual advisor. The unlikely pair end up forming a close friendship. Finally, right before Joseph is put to death, Sister Helen convinces him to confess his sins, beg for forgiveness and give peace to his troubled soul.
Dead Man Walking (opera) guide sections