A work in progress, Gilgamesh is the first opera to be composed in modern Syriac (Assyrian Aramaic). Commissioned by the Assyrian Aid Society, the work to date consists of the overture and the “Bull of Heaven Scene” from Tablet 6 of the ancient text. The libretto is adapted from the poetic interpretation of the ancient text by Addai Alkhas and transliterated by Abraham Giliana. It is designed to be a chamber opera of approximately 60-70 minutes in length when completed. The overture and Bull of Heaven Scene is scheduled to be presented in performance on 23 August 2008 in Modesto, California, by the Townsend Opera Players. Check back regularly for more details.