From a Black Sky

From A Black SkyIn January 2003 when the fires raged and the seemingly impossible happened in Canberra, the city and the people in it changed. From a Black Sky is a gripping chamber opera set in the maelstrom of that day.

In Weston Creek David and Amelia’s marriage is disintegrating. Each is hiding a secret. Money is tight, emotions stretched and ambitions fierce.

David’s mate Tony is guilt-ridden and Amelia’s friend Sophie yields to desire. When the Canberra bushfires hit their suburb with very real and devastating effect, all will be exposed.

An unnerving portrait of a man reduced, a devouring passion, and a community catastrophe. Scored for chamber orchestra and featuring an ACT-based cast and chorus, France’s lyrical and haunting music combines effortlessly with the blunt, forceful and idiomatic language of the suburban characters.

In the tenth anniversary year the opera takes us back into the ordeal as it intensifies each character’s passions, fears, jealousies and strengths creating the crucible in which the true mettle of all is tested.

Director: Caroline Stacey  Featuring: Judith Dodsworth, Rachael Duncan, David Rogers-Smith, Don Bemrose, Erindale College Vocal Ensemble and Arrawang Primary School Chorus  Designer: Christiane Nowak  Conductor: David Kram  Chorus Master: Alan Hicks  Orchestra Leader: Rowan Martin  Children’s Chorus Director: Lynne Kowalik

From a Black Sky
The Street Theatre, Childers Street, Canberra
Season: 20 – 22 September 2013
Bookings: (02) 6247 1223 or online at: www.thestreet.org.au

For more information, visit: www.thestreet.org.au for details.

Image: David Rogers-Smith and Don Bemrose (courtesy of The Street Theatre)