Music by George Benjamin and libretto by Martin Crimp, based on the 13th-century Occitan material Guillem de Cabestanh – Le coeur mangé.
Performed for the first time in 2012, the opera Written on Skin tells a story of impassioned rebellion and emancipation. Agnes’ world is gray and lifeless; she is controlled and suppressed by her husband, the old but powerful ‘protector’. Three angels are nevertheless observing her from a distance, and they resolve to intervene: Assuming the role of a young illustrator, one of the angels slips into her house. His task is ostensibly to immortalize the protector’s legacy in book form. Yet he also brings color to Agnes’ lost paradise. His ability to bring stories to life through pictures kindles a profound fascination in Agnes, and she begins to cast off her shackles through physical and sensual experiences.
Premiere performance on Friday, 21 March at 7:30 p.m. (introduction at 6:45 p.m.)
Further dates:
- Sunday, 23 March at 6:00 p.m. (introduction at 5:15 p.m.)
- Tuesday, 25 March at 7:30 p.m. (introduction at 6:45 p.m.)
- Saturday, 29 March at 7:30 p.m. (introduction at 6:45 p.m.)
In cooperation with the Munich Radio Orchestra.
The performance will be in English with German surtitles. For more information, please visit the August Everding Theater Academy website.