In the haunting corridors beneath Abbotsford Convent, Forest Collective presents a new dance-opera and piano concerto, Labyrinth, as part of the 2024 Midsumma Festival, this February.
Stone. Sweat. Fear. From deep within – a low, strange moan. This is a place of terror. Of sacrifice. Of reckoning. This is the Labyrinth.
Evan J Lawson’s music and Daniel Szesiong Todd’s libretto confront themes of shame, isolation and redemption, while maverick Melbourne pianist Danaë Killian gives powerful voice to the work’s dramatically-embedded piano concerto.
Ashley Dougan’s visceral, yet lyrical choreography brings a desperate humanity to this epic tale. Through this immersive theatrical experience, you will descend into the labyrinth of Greek myth, witnessing first-hand the ordeal of Theseus, Ariadne and her half-brother, the Minotaur. Enter the Labyrinth in 2024.
Forest Collective is a visionary artistic company based in Naarm-Melbourne. Forest Collective passionately advocates for diversity and artistic freedom in contemporary classical music, dance, and collaborative projects.
Led by the guiding hand of composer and conductor Evan J Lawson, Forest Collective is a dynamic force, orchestrated by a dedicated team of creative practitioners.
“Forest Collective make contemporary music sound, look, and feel exciting.” – CutCommon
Composer: Evan J Lawson | Librettist: Daniel Szesiong Todd | Featuring: Helen Bower, Ashley Dougan, Teresa Ingrilli, Danaë Killian, Jesse Matthews, Soda, Daniel Szesiong Todd, Kim Tan | Choreographer: Ashley Dougan | Costume Designer: Jane Noonan | Program Assistant: Charlotte Kube | Visual Artist: Jasmin Bardel
Labyrinth
The Store – Abbotsford Convent, 1 St. Heliers Street, Abbotsford
Season: 6 – 10 February 2024
Bookings: www.midsumma.org.au
For more information, visit: www.forestcollective.com.au for details.
Image: Forest Collective presents Labyrinth – photo by Jasmin Bardel