Lorelei
The Coopers Malthouse, Merlyn Theatre
3 Nov 2018
- 10 Nov 2018
'I like my men like I like my whiskey...on the rocks' – Lorelei
Ancient myth meets modern woman in an allegory of resilience and reclaiming one’s destiny.
Lorelei is a take-no-prisoners, smash-them-on-the-rocks wild woman; a romantic, compassionate, trusting woman; a sensible, rational woman. A present-day enchantress, her past is heartbreak and her future promises haunting self-discovery.
This siren song finds strength in numbers with a trio of talent so alluring it’s impossible to resist. Ali McGregor, Dimity Shepherd and Antoinette Halloran await you at the rock for an intoxicating encounter with love and death: part cabaret, part opera, all seduction.
Their hypnotic music is to die for.
This production contains coarse language and adult themes. Recommended for ages 15+.
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
The Coopers Malthouse, Merlyn Theatre
Saturday 3 November 2018, 7:30pm
Wednesday 7 November 2018, 7:30pm
Thursday 8 November 2018,7:30pm
Friday 9 November 2018, 7:30pm
Saturday 10 November 2018, 1:00pm, 7:30pm
Running time is approximately 75 minutes, no interval.
Sung in English.
The Story
All aboard! You’re on a boat, sailing down the River Rhine in Germany heading toward a particularly tricky bend in the river. A bend which few vessels manage to navigate without crashing and where sailors always drown.
Legend has it that it’s because of three sirens, the Lorelei, who sit atop the cliffs singing a song so alluring and irresistible that the sailors can’t seem to stay focused on the task at hand. You’ll meet this famous trio, who will prepare you to hear the most incredible songs of your life.
But you’ve caught the Lorelei on an odd day. Because today they're wondering if they’re sick of singing sailors to their death. Do they all really deserve to die? Can the Lorelei help being so irresistible?
The Lorelei seem to be having a crisis of conscience. Maybe they’ll shake things up a bit and see what happens if they change their tune.
The Music
Lorelei is a new Australian operatic cabaret composed by Julian Langdon, alongside librettists Casey Bennetto and Gillian Cosgriff. A modern piece of music with classical sensibilities, it includes moments of terror, anger, beauty and humour. Covering diverse musical territory such as tango, pop and classical music, the gorgeous melodies and harmonies make it a joy for singers and easy for audiences to listen to.
Listen
Want a preview of what Lorelei will sound like? Listen to our exclusive recording from the rehearsal room of our artists rehearsing with piano accompaniment.
Cast & Crew
Music Julian Langdon, Casey Bennetto and Gillian Cosgriff
Lyrics Casey Bennetto and Gillian Cosgriff
Orchestration Julian Langdon
Concept by Ali McGregor
Creative team
Musical Director Phoebe Briggs
Director Sarah Giles
Set and Costume Design Marg Horwell
Lighting Design Paul Jackson
Cast
Lorelei A Dimity Shepherd
Lorelei B Ali McGregor
Lorelei C Antoinette Halloran
Orchestra
Victorian Opera Chamber Orchestra
Want to keep up to date with upcoming events, special offers and behind-the-scenes action? Sign up to our eNews.
Gallery
1 of
Reviews
“★★★★½ A highly entertaining evening with a social message”
“★★★★ From music and lyrics to set and costumes, it’s an engaging package whose appeal goes well beyond the usual opera crowd.”
“An absolute treat for the eyes and ears, Lorelei is sophisticated adult entertainment of the highest order.”