In 2016 the Holland Festival – with the support of the EvS Music Foundation – will be presenting the new chamber opera “The Cure” by Sir Harrison Birtwistle. This is closely related to the work “The Corridor” that was premiered in 2010. The librettos of both operas were written by David Harsent and both works were written for the same six instruments as well as for the same voices and singers: the soprano Elizabeth Atherton and the tenor Mark Padmore.
“The Cure” is about a dramatic moment in Greek mythology. Medea hands her father-in-law Jason a rejuvenating potion. The ensuing transformation of a dying old man into a strong young tenor is impressively depicted by the music and its scenic presentation. With its refined aesthetics “The Cure” can be seen as being representative of Birtwistle’s late works.
Although the Holland Festival has presented Birtwistle’s works over the years, they are not often performed in the Netherlands. The performance of “The Cure” in 2016 means a large audience will have the opportunity to discover the latest work of the composer. Furthermore, they will be able to enjoy outstanding performers and musicians such as the international star tenor Mark Padmore and the world-famous London Sinfonietta.