Set against the backdrop of 1930s Watsonville, California, Standing Above Pajaro unfolds on a desperate early morning when Celestino Tobera, a Filipino farm worker, seeks refuge in a general store, fleeing an enraged mob intent on eradicating the Filipino community. The store’s owner, Melissa Anne Crawley, is faced with a heart-wrenching decision: protect Celestino or align with her son, who leads the violent mob.
Through powerful music and compelling storytelling, Standing Above Pajaro explores the collision between anti-Asian violence and the pursuit of the American Dream. It challenges audiences to reflect on the question: “What will it take to create empathy for immigrants seeking better opportunities and the willingness to help them?” Through opera, the project explores migration, race, labor, love, and belonging while illuminating a pivotal chapter of Filipino American history for contemporary audiences.
Learn More: https://www.standingabovepajarotheopera.com/