ESOTERIC

an experimental opera

Rooted in the contemplation of climate change effects of a distant future and the societal significance of the natural world, this audio-visual experience considers our place in the ecosystem and the fleeting power we have to affect it. Fundamentally, ESOTERIC is a multi sensory experience of all that will be left of the natural world if indifference ensues.

Contemporary composer and creative Jessica Lindsay Smith, working in collaboration with electronic visual artist Rachael Archibald and movement artist Arabella Frahn-Starkie, alongside a cast of improvising musicians present this multidisciplinary work that explores movement, improvisation and dramatic story-telling in a shifting, projected space. ESOTERIC is a meditative, textural, and otherworldly exploration of our future.

video excerpts:

XIV. mori circulos

XV. embers still rage (pt 1)

VI. swells/flecks:flores

XV. embers still rage (pt 2)

XIII. planetarium

audio excerpts:

composition, libretto, and concept: jessica lindsay smith
visuals: rachael archibald
choreography/movement: arabella frahn-starkie
costume stylist: bethany peele

featuring:

merinda dias-jayasinha - voice

harriett allcroft - voice

mel taylor - voice

isaac gunnoo - voice, double bass, electric bass

theo carbo - electric guitar, acoustic guitar

flora carbo - tin whistle, alto saxophone, bass clarinet

imogen cygler - voice, violin, synths

maddison carter - voice, percussion, drum kit

jessica lindsay smith - voice, bass flute

ceridwen mccooey - cello

photography: simon fazio + maximum person
graphic design: luke fraser