Homeward Bound: a Korean adoptee exploring the longing for belonging
7:30 – 10:30PM
Lyric soprano and songwriter Jae Carelli shares their story through the lens of the 7 core issues of adoption. Featuring new classical works by American composers, Samuel Barber, Tom Cipullo, Carlisle Floyd, Bo Konigsmark, and Matthew Jihoon Pelligrino, Jae contextualizes these works in their adoption story.
Connecting them with the tracks from their upcoming debut EP American Doll; the issues of loss, loyalty, control, identity, abandonment, trust, and shame are explored through stories and song. Jae challenges the narratives that silence international and transracial adoptees, and criticizes the for profit systems which exploit children for profit. The poignant yet humorous storytelling connects the musical selections while crossing between classical and commercial vocal technique parallels the contrasting duality of their Korean ethnicity and Italian-American heritage.
The New York premiere will feature Nick Guerrero as collaborative pianist, Tonie Nguyen on guitar, Hari Nandu on bass, Jen Ho on violin and Zac Swanner on drums. Lyrical visuals by Robin Wong.