Kanye West has shared a synopsis of his Nebuchadnezzar opera. According to a press release, the original opera is set in the 6th century B.C.E. and is “based on the biblical story of the Babylonian King from the Book of Daniel,” which “recounts Nebuchadnezzar’s transition from wicked, imperious, self-declared ruler to a true believer who finds salvation in his faith.” The press release continues:
West conceived of this opera as an expression of his commitment to both his faith and ever-expanding musical palette. Nebuchadnezzar brings together elements from different worlds, including opera, fine art, modern dance, and gospel music, to create an innovative performance structure. West’s sound is the bridge between these artforms.
Nebuchadnezzar premieres this at Sunday, November 24, at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Bowl at 4 p.m. Pacific. It’s directed by Vanessa Beecroft and will feature West’s Sunday Service collective, singer Peter Collins, and the group Infinity’s Song. Get tickets here. (Pitchfork may earn a commission from purchases made through affiliate links on our site.)
Last month, before the release of Jesus Is King, Kanye West joined Zane Lowe for an interview on Apple Music’s Beats 1. During their chat, West mentioned Nebuchadnezzar while speaking of his Yeezus tour. “[God] is saying, Let me take this Nebuchadnezzar-type character—Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon, and he looked at his entire kingdom and said, I did this,” West said, adding, “I stood on the top of the mountain talking about Yeezus, saying, ‘I’m a God’—I had a guy dressed as Jesus.”
Originally Appeared on Pitchfork
