Entertainment

The week in classical: The Dead City; Black Angels; Re:sound – review

  • 02. Apr 2023. 7:57
  • By The EU Times
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This week has seen a range of classical music performances with something for everyone. English National Opera’s new production of The Dead City, the UK premiere of George Crumb’s Black Angels, and the Re:sound Voices of Our Cities performance at Kings Place, were all highlights.

The Dead City, a new opera by composer Nico Muhly, was performed at London’s Coliseum by English National Opera (ENO). Directed by Annilese Miskimmon, the production was a modern reworking of a play by the same name, which is set in a post-apocalyptic world. The music was powerful and intense, with Muhly’s score creating a bleak but beautiful atmosphere. The cast were outstanding, particularly soprano Rebecca Evans as the heroine, and the production featured a range of stunning visual effects.

George Crumb’s Black Angels was given its UK premiere at Manchester Collective’s Home of Music. The piece was composed in 1970, and is inspired by the Vietnam War. It was performed with haunting intensity by the Manchester Collective, who were joined by a range of guest musicians. The performance was a powerful and moving experience, which highlighted Crumb’s mastery of composition.

Finally, Kings Place hosted Re:sound Voices of Our Cities, a collaboration between Streetwise Opera and the BBC Concert Orchestra. The performance featured a range of music from a diverse range of composers, including works by Bach, Copland, and Gershwin. The performance was a celebration of the contribution of classical music from cities around the world, and was an uplifting and inspiring experience.

Overall, this week has been a reminder of the power of classical music, and the range of performances that are available. All three performances were remarkable in their own way, and showcased the talent of a range of composers and performers.