April 06, 2007
WESTERN FRONT NEW MUSIC Presents
ALTERNATE VISIONS
WESTERN FRONT NEW MUSIC Presents the West Coast "virtual" premiere of ALTERNATE VISIONS, a new opera by Vancouver composer John Oliver and librettist Genni Gunn :: May 5, 2007 at 5pm :: The Western Front, 303 East 8th Avenue (near Main) :: Admission by donation: Free to Western Front Members :: Reservations / Information: 604 876-9343 / www.front.bc.ca
An alternate vision of love: Staged in Montreal by Chants Libres, and broadcast by a live video stream to the Western Front in Vancouver, this bilingual opera presentation is truly an encounter mediated by cyberspace. Taking the subject matter of computer dating as its focus, Alternate Visions addresses the internet¹s power to create personas and perfection. In a space where musical styles merge, real and virtual universes collide, robotics and intelligent skin mingle...what happens to human carnal relations?
Two singles develop a relationship over the Internet in a virtual 3D environment; they decide to break the ice of cyberspace and meet in person at a high-tech karaoke bar, which is in fact the set of Alternate Visions, a reality television show. At the last minute, they both get cold feet and ask their respective best friends to take their places. Why take the risk? Why change anything?
Misunderstandings multiply ad infinitum, raising questions around the perception of reality and the culture of identity. Cher internet, peux-tu me dire qui je suis?
Vancouver audiences can attend this live large screen video broadcast of the closing night performance of Alternate Visions on Saturday May 5 at 5pm at the Western Front. Please reserve seats by calling 604 876-9343 - admission is by donation at the door. The opera will be performed in English and French.
Music: John Oliver, on a libretto by Genni Gunn. Soloists: Rinde Eckert (tenor, Richard), Jacinthe Thibault (mezzo-soprano, Valerie), ÉthelGuéret (soprano, Susan), Patrick Mallette (baritone, TV host). The three Girls: Jean-François Daigneault (countertenor), Ghislaine Deschambault (soprano) and Claudine Ledoux (mezzo soprano). Musicians: The Bradyworks ensemble, directed by Cristian Gort.
Production team: Pauline Vaillancourt (stage direction), Jean Décarie (visual design and interactivity), Jean Gervais (lighting), Pascal Dufaux (stage design), Liz Vandal(costumes), Joanna Berzowska (interactive textiles), Jacques-Lee Pelletier (makeup).
This opera is co-produced with the DEII(Laboratory of Immersive and Interactive environment development), in partnership with the Hexagram Institute for Research and Creation in Interuniversity Media Arts andTechnologies, and in collaboration with Bradyworks, the Usine C and the CIAM.
Since its beginnings in 1990, CHANTS LIBRES has always presented operatic repertoire with a modern flavor and has constantly explored new techniques and approaches in the sphere of vocal art. The company works in close collaboration with creators and researchers of all disciplines. ALTERNATE VISIONS, the company's 12th operatic production, integrates state-of-the-art technologies.
For further information, contact DB Boyko, Music Curator, Western Front New Music 604 876-9343 newmusic[at]front.bc.ca
Posted by jo at April 6, 2007 10:57 AM
