Relevant Tones: A Thousand Splendid Suns

Set against Afghanistan’s volatile history, A Thousand Splendid Suns tells the breathtaking story of Mariam and Laila, two Afghan women. Brought together under the brutal Taliban rule, the bond between Laila and Mariam leads to unthinkable sacrifices, and ultimately, one family’s survival.

Based on Khaled Hosseini's best-selling novel, this story has captured the hearts of millions including American composer Sheila Silver and librettist Stephen Kitsakos who adapted the novel for the opera stage. 

I sit down to talk with Sheila Silver about her opera, its journey to the Seattle stage, and her musical studies in India with vocalist Pandit Kedar Bodas. 

Check out our conversation and listen to experts from the Seattle Opera’s world premiere here.