Opera Synopsis

Cicéron, an Opera in three acts.

Music and Libretto by Josh Hoisington

Note: This is very loosely based on the life of the real Cicero, don't take it as history of any kind.

Overture

Act I

The Senate, set any time in between 150 BC and 1915 AD: Cicero laments how the great republican tradition of the government has fallen to the demagoguery and cult of personality of Caesar. His comrades in the senate urge him to take a stand and speak out. Cicero is embarrassed when Caesar enters and warmly greets him as if they are on the same page politically, and yet is gratified by his fame, and reveals that he is too timid to speak out. But soon enough, Brutus and a small cabal of conspirators assassinate Caesar on the Senate floor. As the act ends, Brutus calls up to Cicero victoriously.

Act II

At Cicero's country villa: Cicero has retreated from the political scene, but again laments the direction the country is going, this time under Anthony. At the same time, Cicero's daughter Tullia has given birth to a grandson but is very ill. As she dies, she urges him to speak his mind and try to influence the country against going down the path suggested by Anthony.

Act III

At Cicero's townhouse: Cicero dines with a group of intimates. As they sit down to dine and drink, Cicero tells them that he has finally published his thoughts about Anthony in several prominent public "newspapers." The state of the country is such that many at the table have a price on their heads. The group sings of better days, and Cicero expounds the Greek philosophy that has consoled him after losing both daughter and country. As the night unfolds, the group begins to disband, fleeing to different places in order to seek asylum and avoid capture and certain death. Finally, Cicero is left alone with his trusted servant. Initially, Cicero says he will stay, but his servant urges him to flee and avoid the consequences when Anthony reads his article. Cicero heeds this advice--but he and the servant only get so far in their car when they are pulled over. With the police is Anthony himself, who greets Cicero warmly, much like Caesar. He tells Cicero that he read the article, and demands a retraction, after which, based on Cicero's heretofore sparkling reputation, all will be forgiven. Instead, Cicero sticks out his head and says "There is nothing proper about what you are doing, soldier, but do try to kill me properly." Anthony turns in disgust, makes the signal, and Cicero is beheaded.