The Sea.
“This is an opera [The Sea] that directly addresses difficult themes and explores notions of coercion, corruption, and seduction. This is conveyed by a range of melodies that begin gently but build to more intense tones and sounds.”
— Patricia Di Risio, Stage Whispers
Uncover the depths of human connection and power in the new opera The Sea
In The Sea, evocative melodies transport you to the heart of life's mysteries; where love, lust, and power collide.
Be swept away by the thought-provoking and immersive opera, The Sea - a groundbreaking, debut collaboration between Forest Collective and BK Opera. At the stunning Abbotsford Convent, we invite you to embark on a journey like no other, as we explore the intricate tapestry of human connection, power, and the corrupting influence of relationships.
Composer Evan J Lawson's music is a mirror reflecting humanity. From the depths of the human soul, Lawson brings together the worlds of rich and melodic classical music with dynamic and fresh new sounds. Lawson's music illuminates the complex interplay of emotions and power dynamics in relationships. Paired with the haunting words of poet Nicole Butcher, and directed by the visionary Kate Millett (BK Opera, Artistic Director), this work brings to the stage the depths of human connection, showcasing the raw and often turbulent nature of relationships.
The words and music will expose the corrosive nature of power and the profound impact it can have on the human experience.
This December, Abbotsford Convent will come alive with a captivating season of The Sea. Join us for a visceral exploration of love, lust, and the corrupting influence of power in relationships. Let the waves of imagination wash over you as we unveil this extraordinary collaboration between Forest Collective and BK Opera, a union that promises to challenge and inspire.
Starring Daniel Szesiong Todd, Aleise Bright, Henry Shaw, Jesse Matthews, Amanda Windred and Girlwhatever, with musicians from Forest Collective.
About.
World premiere December 2023, Melbourne-Naarm
Performers 6 singers, 8 musicians
Duration 35 minutes
Reviews.
“[In The Sea] Lawson conducts an evocative score that elicits feelings of freedom and exhilaration that being in a relationship and the sea can offer as well as the danger of becoming trapped and overpowered by said relationship and the sea. ” — Myron My, My Melbourne Arts
“The Sea is a highly atmospheric opera that moves the audience through its fervent composition and unique staging.” — Patricia Di Risio Stage Whispers
“The Sea’ is an unmissable opera that plunges its audience into a world of heightened emotion, potent power dynamics, and the intricate dance of human connection.” — Scenestr
Acknowledgements.
Music Evan J Lawson
Libretto Nicole Butcher
Commissioned by Forest Collective
Presented by Forest Collective, BK Opera and Abbotsford Convent
Musical director Evan J Lawson
Director Kate Millett
Costume Designer Jane Noonan
Lighting Designer Gabe Bethune
Past performances.
7 - 10 December 2023
Abbotsford Convent
Melbourne-Naarm, Australia
Images by Andrew Signor.
