The opera is titled Nebuchadnezzar, after a king in the Bible. Here’s everything West fans and interested onlookers need to know about the story, West’s career and how to see the opera live.
Who Is Nebuchadnezzar?
It appears West’s opera will be based on a true story. Nebuchadnezzar was the king of Babylon, who ruled from 605 BC to 562 BC. He was featured in the Book of Daniel, a part of the Old Testament that’s widely regarded as an apocalyptic tale.
In Daniel’s account, once Nebuchadnezzar was crowned king he demanded his people worship deities of gold. This is not the Bible’s God, but a false God. When some refused to abandon their God, Nebuchadnezzar attempted to kill them. An angel came to the king, though, which convinced him of the existence of the people’s God, not his own.
The story is one of power and guidance from God, and explains that Nebuchadnezzar wouldn’t have been successful without God behind him. This seems similar to West’s own message, as the artist and designer has preached that his creativity and strength come from God.
How Can You See The Opera?
Only one showing has been announced for the opera so far. Nebuchadnezzar will premiere at The Hollywood Bowl on Sunday. In his initial tweet, West revealed doors for the performance will open at 1:30 p.m. PT, though the opera will begin at 4 p.m.
Tickets have already gone on sale. Seats for the opera first became available on Monday, and many were still available as of press time Tuesday. The famous venue has a capacity of 17,500 spectators.
Available tickets are widely disbursed throughout the venue. Prices range from $120 to $775 per seat and can be purchased from Ticketmaster.
Inside West’s Religion
This isn’t the first religious venture from West. The musician’s ninth album, Jesus Is King, was released at the end of October and featured all Christian songs. His next release, scheduled to drop on Christmas Day, has been announced with the title Jesus Is Born.
West appeared in Houston at Joel Osteen’s famed megachurch on Sunday to speak about his recent conversion. In the talk, West claimed he’s a creation of God. “Jesus has won the victory,” the musician said. “I told you about my arrogance and cockiness already. Now the greatest artist that God has ever created is now working for him.”
