Movie spotlight
Written On Skin
When Written on Skin had its premiere at the 2012 Festival d'Aix-en-Provence, conducted by George Benjamin himself, it received a standing ovation. The opera's arrival at Covent Garden in 2013 was eagerly anticipated, and provided audiences with the opportunity to experience the work of two of Britain's greatest living artists. Benjamin previously collaborated with playwright Martin Crimp on Into the Little Hill, a magical retelling of the Pied Piper fairytale, and for this new work they joined forces with acclaimed stage director Katie Mitchell. For all three, the production marked their main-stage debut at the Royal Opera House. The tale, inspired by a medieval legend, tells of an ill-fated troubadour, drawn into a liaison with an innocent maiden. But they are observed by the jealous eye of her protector, who wreaks a shocking revenge on the young couple. Written on Skin draws on a 12th-century Occitan legend about the troubadour Guillaume de Cabestanh.
Insights
Plot Summary
In a secluded house, a wealthy landowner commissions a young woman, Agnès, to create a portrait of him. As the artistic process unfolds, a complex and dangerous dynamic emerges between them, involving Agnès's partner, her brother, and the landowners' own manipulative wife. Tensions escalate, leading to obsession, betrayal, and ultimately, violence.
Critical Reception
Written on Skin was met with widespread critical acclaim, lauded for its powerful operatic score, intense psychological drama, and striking visual presentation. Critics praised its exploration of dark themes and the exceptional performances of its lead actors, particularly Barbara Hannigan. It was recognized as a significant modern opera, garnering awards and festival attention.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its haunting and innovative operatic score.
Celebrated for its intense psychological drama and exploration of primal emotions.
Commended for its visually arresting and often disturbing aesthetic.
Google audience: As an opera, it generally receives high marks from audiences appreciative of contemporary classical music and avant-garde performance, though specific audience review data is scarce.
Awards & Accolades
Winner of the Grand Prix de la Critique for Best New Opera Production at the 2013 Quebec International Festival of Opera; Nominated for Best Opera Recording at the 2015 Grammy Awards.
Fun Fact
The opera was composed by George Benjamin with a libretto by Martin Crimp, and was commissioned by a consortium of opera houses, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Théâtre du Capitole in Toulouse.
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