York the Explorer Folk Opera

SYNOPSIS

York the Explorer is an American folk opera in two acts by Aaron Nigel Smith with Libretto support from acclaimed poet Dr. Renee Mitchell. This seminal work explores the story of the only Black man to journey alongside Lewis & Clark in the Corps of Discovery Expedition. A vibrant and diverse cast of everyday individuals and historical figures weave together tales and melodies that delve into York’s emotional landscape while capturing his experiences of adventure, disappointment, and hope. This poignant opera uniquely marries folk instruments such as the banjo, djembe, fiddle, and guitar with a genre- bending mixture of classical, musical theatre, and soulful vocals to create a rich sonic tapestry that echoes the essence of exploration.

THE PLOT

Portland storyteller, Trenchtown, along with Nia and Shine, gather at Mt. Tabor Park after hearing about the toppling of the local York monument. They help spark a community discussion about York’s historical significance through powerful storytelling and song. Those gathered learn about the trials and triumphs that York experienced through interpretations of the journals of Lewis & Clark. The community debates conflicting historical accounts of York’s final days and cannot agree on which is true. However, they unite in the belief that York should be properly recognized.

Photo by Justine Vanderpool

About York

The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as The Corps of Discovery, began on May 14, 1804, going by boat up the Missouri River. Both Clark and Lewis wrote detailed journal entries chronicling the journey and encounters with foreign places, animals and dangerous situations. They also wrote about York and his contributions. During the journey York lived and worked as a free person. He helped gather wild plants and vegetables, worked from sun up until sun down to ensure the safety of Clark and the other explorers and he provided valuable input on major decisions affecting the health and welfare of the expedition. In late October, the explorers decided to stop for the winter and build a small fort near the villages of two Native American tribes, the Mandan and the Hidatsa. The tribesmen had never seen anyone like York. They believed that the brown on his skin would wash away. York was named “big medicine,” and the people of the tribe admired him.

DENVER PUBLIC LIBRARY

Genealogy, African American

& Western History Resources

READ THE FULL PUBLICATION HERE:

https://history.denverlibrary.org/news/york-american-hero

York the Explorer Folk Opera

SYNOPSIS

About York

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