“Morgiane,” a forgotten opera written by Black composer in 1855, performed for the first time
“Morgiane” is believed to be the oldest existing opera written by a Black American — but despite its historic significance, the show was only performed for audiences for the first time in 2025. “Morgiane” was the magnum opus of New Orleans-born composer Edmond Dede. The opera, based on themes from “Ali Baba and the 40…