Welcome to the website for HEARTLAND,
An Opera
Music by
Philip Westin

Libretto by
Burt Peachy


This new American opera, inspired by Willa Cather’s famous novel
O PIONEERS! explores the personal stories of immigrants who homesteaded on the Nebraska plains during the latter part of the nineteenth century.

This story of brave people who created thriving farms in the face of seemingly insurmountable hardships, focuses on three main characters: Alexandra Bergstrom, a determined and successful farm owner; her young brother, Emil; and Marie Shabata, a young girl whom Emil secretly loves.

Here, you will find musical selections from the show, video vignettes from the studio recording session, a short biography of Willa Cather, notes on the adaptation, historical data on homesteading in nineteenth century America, and information on the collaborators and recording artists of this rousing tribute to the pioneering spirit.

For those of you who may be interested in pursuing a production of the show and need additional materials and information, you may submit your requests right here with an online form. 

We hope you enjoy the HEARTLAND experience!

Creative Consultant to the project – Michael Olton