THE RISING, An Irish Allegory, is a grand musical oratorio exploring through music and poetry the stormy relationship between Nobel poet William Butler Yeats and fiery Irish patriot Maud Gonne.

This famous, unrequited love affair (which inspired almost all Yeats' love poetry) takes place in the context of Ireland’s fierce fight for independence from England in the early 20th century. The core story is told from the poems, speeches and writings of Yeats, Gonne, and others. Evans' music brings together the heart of Irish music with the depth and breadth of oratorio, making for a sublime expression of the struggles of humanity, both cultural and personal.

Composed for solo vocalists, Irish instrumental ensemble, chorus and orchestra. Words by W. B. Yeats, Maud Gonne, Francis Ledwidge et al. Composed and Orchestrated by Richard B. Evans.

This fully produced CD recording features rising opera star soprano Nicolle Foland singing the role of Maud Gonne; baritone Richard Haile singing the role of Padraic Pearse; tenor Dennis McNeil singing the role of William Butler Yeats; and Christy O'Leary singing the role of James Connolly. Instrumentalists include BOYS OF THE LOUGH – Aly Bain, fiddle; Cathal McConnell, flute and whistles; Dave Richardson, concertina and mandoline; and Christy O'Leary, Uilleann pipes and whistles – as well as the SONORA STRING QUARTET and Bill Woods, bodhran. The chorus is THE UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON SINGERS, led by Gabriel Dimutrescu, and the narration is by Irish actor Ray Yeates.

CD cover designed by award-winning graphic designer Richard Bagel.

This recording is available for purchase.