Afghanistan

COR

Operas

Noor Over Afghan is set in Afghanistan, and tells the story of two young Afghani sisters, Noor and Jaan. But Jaan is dying, and begs Noor to take her place in the marriage and have her child. By the time the groom finds out, Jaan will have died. They swap places, Noor disguised by the veil.

Composer: Christiaan Venter

Librettist: Anusree Roy

COR

Excerpts

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 1

Jaan, who is dying, asks her sister Noor to secretely take her place on her wedding day. Noor reluctantly agrees.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 2

The wedding ceremony. Noor hesitates, then marries Rafique.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 3

Jaan meets group of tribal women in the desert who convince her to stay with them while she dies. Noor takes Jaan's place in the circle.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 4: The Wedding Night

Noor tells the lie Jaan asked of her to Rafique. Rafique sends her away and tries to figure out what he should do.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 5

Jaan remains alive. The tribal women suggest she should write to Noor to know what has happen and ease her mind.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 6

In bed, Rafique and Noor separately wonder how to get out of their situation.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 7: Desert (aria)

In a letter, Jaan asks if Noor still loves her.

Noor Over Afghan – Scene 8

Receiving Jaan's letter, Noor forgives her sister. Noor and Rafique decide they will try to remain friends.