Robert Jordan (Tenor), American, early 30’s Former Spanish instructor at a college in the mid-west, Robert came to Spain to support the Republicans and fight the Fascists. A skilled dynamiter, he has become disillusioned with the war, seeking meaning in performing his responsibilities to the best of his ability. To the world, he is handsome, virile, and in command, with a seemingly impenetrable stoical exterior. But they mask an untapped emotional depth consumed with self-doubt and a roiling loss of purpose, aware he is going through the motions without conviction. He realizes that he could die on this mission, but is unsure how he feels about that. Robert finds himself drawn to Maria both physically and emotionally. He feels protective of her but also aware that he cares for her in ways he has never cared for anyone before, and starts to imagine sharing a life with her, which gives him someone to live – and die – for. Tall, sinewy muscles, light complexion and hair.

Maria, 18 (Soprano) Traumatized first by witnessing her parents being executed, then gang-raped by the Fascists, she was saved by the guerrillas led by Pablo, when they blew up the train taking her south to a prison camp. Not part of the guerrilla band herself, she has found a place among them cooking under Pilar›s watchful eye which has given her a sense of belonging and helped heal her shattered sense of self. She is trusting by nature but still feels displaced and lost due to the emotional upheavals she has experienced. She is in search of something or someone to believe in and live for, even if she is not aware of it herself. Senses that beneath his resolute exterior Robert is a kindred – and equally lost – spirit. This awakens her dormant heart and prompts her to want to be with him and to have a relationship that is both emotionally rewarding and lasting and opens her up to imagining a better life with him elsewhere. Dark hair, attractive features, melancholy air beneath a very natural warmth.

Pilar, late 40’s (mezzo) A born leader and a true believer in the Republic, placing all of her energies and passion in its service, even though she recognizes the ruthless brutality that exists on both sides. Never beautiful and insisting she is ugly, she still sparks with the fire – the Gypsy blood in her, she would say – that incited the passion of matadors when she was younger. Although she still describes herself as “Pablo’s woman” she is disgusted that he’s become a drunk, shirking his responsibilities to the others. Protective of Maria, she sees Robert as a way to get Maria to safety and senses that Robert may need Maria as much as Maria needs Robert. Gritty, commanding, keeps her own counsel, but with a sense of humor.

Pablo, late 40’s (bass) Once a ruthless leader that both attracted and repelled Pilar, he is now tired of the conflict and has sought safety in hiding out in the mountains, drinking his nights away. He has alienated the other guerrillas who have already turned to Pilar for direction, even if he pretends not to know. He is invested in his own self-preservation at all costs, even if it means undermining RRobert’s mission. He can be crafty, selfish, duplicitous, and cowardly. But he is also smart and a survivor. Not to be trusted but the others do, even when they know better. Barrel-chested with shifting eyes that are always on guard.

Anselmo, 60’s (baritone) Dedicated, reliable, committed to the Republican cause, though his conscience is still troubled by the human cost and moral consequences, but can see clearly what he must do if their side is to defeat the Fascists.  Wears his age on his face, a man of few words, but uses them wisely.

Rafael, early 40’s (tenor) Easy-going, self-identified Gypsy, always happy to have another meal; wily, willing to take orders but not always perfect at execution, expects to survive the war regardless of who wins.

Agustín, 30’s (baritone) A hot-headed, foul-mouthed man who seems younger than his years for all of his hard-bitten commitment to the Republican cause.

Fernando, early 30s. (tenor) Engaged in the cause but on his own terms.  Will stick it out but will be glad when it’s over, so life can go back to what it was.  Can miss the forest for the trees. Personable.

Amalia, 30’s (alto) Sister of Fernando, plain and tom boyish.

Rosa, 30’s (soprano)

Isabella, 30’s (mezzo)

Lorenzo, 30’s (bass)

Primitivo, 20’s (bass) Youngest member of the band.

El Sordo, 40’s (baritone) An intuitive and fearless leader, if somewhat impulsive. Still can listen, evaluate, and understand orders are orders. Cares about his men and they care about him. Personable, engaging, gracious even in difficult circumstances, knows what to take seriously and what not.

Joaquin, 20’s (tenor) Member of El Sordo’s band