A world-premiere opera takes flight this May with Derrick Wang’s Fearless at OperaDelaware

Wilmington, DE - OperaDelaware, the 11th oldest opera company in America, was founded in 1945 on the principle of delivering Opera for All in the First State. In its nearly 80-year history, OperaDelaware has evolved into a pioneering artist-led company, proving that Delaware is a destination for unique and praise-worthy artistic programming. 

In May 2025, OperaDelaware presents the world premiere of Fearless, a new musical drama by acclaimed American composer-librettist Derrick Wang (Scalia/Ginsburg).

 Fearless is a musical drama inspired by the incredible true story of trailblazing American World War II aviator Hazel Ying Lee. Born in the United States and coming of age during the Great Depression, Hazel overcame barriers at home and abroad to become a leading member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots—setting an inspiring example for her peers, for her family, and for generations of pilots to come.

Featuring globe-spanning adventures, a tuneful symphonic score, and a majority-women cast that celebrates diverse voices, Fearless tells a story of courage, service, and sacrifice against the domestic and global upheavals of WWII. Through this refreshing, accessible work that advances the traditional repertoire of both opera and musical theater, audiences will be uplifted in this epic tale of America’s overlooked heroes—unsung until now. 

“Hazel Ying Lee was larger than life—a dynamic, pivotal character who defied tremendous odds to serve in a time of world war,” said composer-librettist Derrick Wang. “Ever since I first learned of Hazel’s amazing adventures some years ago, I have felt called to share her story with the world. I’m especially delighted to do so through the medium of American opera, a uniquely hybrid artform that can combine the best of Old World discipline and American drive—just like Hazel herself.”

Fearless marks OperaDelaware’s third collaboration with composer-librettist Derrick Wang, following the bestselling 2019 production of his acclaimed opera Scalia/Ginsburg and the 2024 world premiere of his completion of Giacomo Puccini’s unfinished opera Turandot. Fearless was previously developed in a 2023 OperaDelaware workshop, supported in part by an OPERA America Repertoire Development Grant.

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More information: https://www.operade.org/2425-fearless-world-premiere
Tickets: https://operade.my.salesforce-sites.com/ticket#/events/a0SPr000000vREnMAM