The Ballad of Baby Doe at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

The Ballad of Baby Doe is a timeless American opera that resonates with themes of love, resilience, and ambition, set against the vibrant backdrop of the Colorado Silver Boom. Directed by Eric Pinder with music direction by Philip King, this masterpiece brings history to life, exploring the complex dynamics of relationships and societal change through poignant melodies and heartfelt storytelling.

At Central Florida Vocal Arts, we believe in the transformative power of performance to inspire and connect audiences and The Ballad of Baby Doe exemplifies this ethos. The story centers on the real-life figure Elizabeth “Baby” Doe, whose unwavering spirit and tender love for silver magnate Horace Tabor triumph amidst adversity. As Baby Doe’s journey unfolds—from her humble beginnings to her tumultuous relationship with Horace—audiences are immersed in a tale of passion, heartbreak and ultimate redemption.

The Ballad of Baby Doe is one of the most treasured American operas. Its plot is based on the lives of actual historical figures from Colorado, Horace Tabor and his wife, Elizabeth (“Baby”) Doe Tabor. Memorable arias include the title heroine’s arias “Willow Song” and “Letter Aria,” as well as Horace Tabor’s “Warm as the Autumn Light.”

This operatic treasure is not only a celebration of American musical tradition but also an intimate exploration of the human spirit. Featuring lush orchestrations, unforgettable arias like “Willow Song,” and characters brimming with emotional depth, The Ballad of Baby Doe speaks to the values of perseverance, individuality and grace under pressure.

The opera The Ballad of Baby Doe premiered at the Central City Opera in Colorado in 1956 with Dolores Wilson in the title role. The opera’s New York premiere, directed by Vladimir Rosing, was presented at the New York City Opera in 1958, starring Beverly Sills as Baby Doe Tabor.

Authors

• Douglas Moore
• John Latouche