Carmina Burana Redux

Presentation

O Fortuna, velut Luna statu variabilis, semper crescis aut decrescis - this is the famous opening line of Carl Orff's seminal work Carmina Burana: "O Fortune, like the ever changing moon, you are always waxing or waning." Based on a collection of secular medieval poems written in Latin, Old French and Middle High German, Carmina Burana has remained a popular staple of the concert stage since its première in 1937 - the opening chorus is one the most recognisable pieces of classical music.

The poems that form this collection explore aspects and preoccupations of everyday life that have remained relevant to this day: the vicissitudes of fate and fortune, the ephemeral essence of life, the happiness brought by the return of spring and the pleasures (and dangers!) of drinking, eating, gambling and lust.

Originally, Carmina Burana was conceived as a work for theatrical presentation. Carl Orff developed the concept of Theatrum Mundi, his version of the Wagnerian Gesamtkunstwerk, in which music, movement and speech were inextricably united. Orff gave his magnum opus the subtitle "scenic cantata", signally his original intention that it should be presented with dance, choreography and scenic design.

Choreographers Megan Kennedy and Jessica Kennedy, the artistic directors of Junk Ensemble, originated the idea of a new interpretation and presentation of this work as Carmina Burana Redux. In this production, contemporary dance will function as the primary narrative engine and interpretation. This is a large-scale project and Junk Ensemble are joining forces with Luail and Irish National Opera to realise this project.

Luail will contribute its expertise in large-scale dance production and its full-time ensemble of dancers. Irish National Opera will contribute its expertise in experimental productions and top musicians and singers to complement the work.

Artistic Team

Megan Kennedy and Jessica Kennedy - Choreographers/Directors (and Artistic Directors of Junk Ensemble), International, Resident in Ireland, idea orginators. Fergus Sheil - Conductor (and Artistic Director of Irish National Opera), Ireland. Francis O'Connor - Set Designer, United Kingdom. Francis O'Connor is an interntionally recognised set designer with much experience designing for dance and opera. Alison Brown - Costume Designer, United Kingdom, selected for her creative use of materials and stunning designs. The Luail Dance Ensemble (8 dancers, multiple nationalities: Taiwan, United Kingdom, USA, Uganda, Ireland).

Co-producing Partners