WORLD PREMIERE
Inspired by the life of St. Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of his death.

Richard Danielpour, composer
Sr. Margaret Carney, librettist
JoAnn Falletta, conductor
Claudia Christian, narrator (Angel)
Edward Nelson, baritone (Francis)
Anna Schubert, soprano (St. Clare)
Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus
Fredonia Chamber Choir
Vernon Huff, chorus director

Experience a major world premiere as the BPO brings Richard Danielpour’s Francis: An Oratorio in Nine Scenes to life — an expansive new work inspired by St. Francis of Assisi and marking the 800th anniversary of his death. Through orchestra, chorus, soloists, and narration, the oratorio explores compassion, transformation, care for creation, and the search for meaning in a divided world.

Conducted by JoAnn Falletta, with a libretto by Sr. Margaret Carney and narration by Claudia Christian, Francis brings together powerful musical and dramatic forces for a story that feels both ancient and urgently present.

Sweeping in sound and intimate in reflection, this world premiere invites us to consider what it means to live with purpose, empathy, and connection in our own time.