Treemonisha

Scott Joplin's only surviving opera comes to vibrant life in this excellent stage production filmed at the Houston Grand Opera. Set in the post-Civil War era, the storyline follows the trials and tribulations of a young woman named Treemonisha (Carmen Balthrop) who has had the benefit of an education, and returns to her village to, in turn, save her people from their superstitious ways. Unfortunately, this cuts right into the wallet of Zodzetrick (Obba Babatunde), a confidence man who makes his living selling fake remedies, etc. He kidnaps Treemonisha, and spirits her away to a forest hideout. When she's rescued, the villagers are ready to punish the evildoers severely, but Treemonisha admonishes them not to "repay evil with evil." It's a simple story, gaily festooned with outlandish characters, colorful costumes, and joyous singing. Highly recommended. (Available from most distributors.)