Four Jewish Women Playing Mah Jongg (2021)

A 40-minute opera for four voices and piano, with a libretto written by the composer. Three Jewish women get together for their weekly mah jongg game and are joined by a fourth women who is new to the neighborhood and their customs. The differences between them at first are a source of conflict but they learn to get along through their shared love of mah jongg.

Premiered by the Adelphi Opera Theater, directed by Dr. Darla Diltz, on December 8, 2021, at Adelphi University. Cast: Bianca Zelaya (Hila), Mallory Clark (Rachel), Lara Campanella (Leah), and Gwyneth Fernandes (Faigy), accompanied by Violetta Zabbi. Video editing by Ryan Closs.

Sample of first page.