The Opera Group
BIRDS. BARKS. BONES.
July 2004
Produced by The Opera Group
Music by Edward Rushton
Words by Dagny Gioulami
Winner of the British Composer Award for Best Stagework (2005)
The ancient myth of Odysseus - the story of the journey of a lifetime - is retold with a modern twist. A Greek soldier is away at war for twenty years. A catalogue of deceit and betrayal has left behind wounds that will not heal. Epic adventure and black comedy with every shade of theatre in between, this trilogy of new opera promises to blend classical drama with a vividly evocative new score. Edward Rushton’s recent commissions include Harley for Zurich Opera and works for BCMG and London Sinfonietta.
The evening begins with the classical tragedy of Philoctetes – the war hero who is tricked by the devious Odysseus into supporting the Trojan war once more. The whole company of ten singers then comes together as an ensemble to create the howling of Odysseus’ aged dog as it waits for its master’s return from the war. The final part, Linen from Smyrna takes place after Odysseus’ death. As cocktails are served, each of the women who knew him pays their respects to his corpse. Uncomfortable truths emerge as secrets are revealed and relationships laid bare.
With a cast of ten outstanding young British singers this promises to be a compelling new production.
Performances are supported by Arts Council England and the Linbury Prize.
17 July
Cheltenham Festival
18 July
Oxford Playhouse
26 & 27 July
Linbury Studio Theatre at the Royal Opera House
Conductor Gerry Cornelius
Director John Fulljames
Designer Adam Wiltshire
Lighting Designer Oliver Fenwick