Bringing opera firmly into the 21st century – A Review

Step into a world where grime meets jazz, and classical opera intertwines with modern-day narratives. Link in my bio takes you on a journey through a tragedy on a South London bus, where the audience becomes an integral part of the unfolding story. Mixing music genres and societal issues, this interactive show is a unique experience that challenges the audience to make decisions that impact the characters’ fate.

We find ourselves in the studio at the Grand Théâtre, surrounded by the sounds of a diverse South London neighborhood. The stage is set like the upper deck of a London bus, with musicians from the United Instruments of Lucilin setting the tone for a captivating performance. As the story unravels, we witness the clash of ideologies, identities, and loyalties among the passengers onboard.

Director Seta White, along with writer Jennifer Farmer, has crafted a narrative that reflects the realities of post-Brexit Britain. The fusion of grime, opera, and jazz by Charlotte Marlow and Dirty Freud creates a mesmerizing musical backdrop for the talented vocalists to shine. The story delves into the rising tensions in a gentrifying South London, where voices of hate and division threaten the harmony of the community.

In the second half of the show, the bus is hijacked by alt and far-right radicals, leading to a climactic confrontation that shakes the audience to its core. The creators invite the audience to participate in crucial decision-making moments, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. Link in my bio is a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by today’s youth in a world plagued by extremism and intolerance.

As the curtains fall on this powerful performance, one is left pondering the impact of ideologies on society and the importance of standing up against hate. Link in my bio is not just a story of tragedy; it is a call to action, urging us to confront the darkness within ourselves and our communities.

FAQs

1. What is the premise of Link in my bio?

Link in my bio is an interactive opera that tells the story of a tragedy unfolding on a South London bus, where the audience plays a pivotal role in shaping the narrative through QR code interactions.

2. Who are the key creatives behind the show?

Director Seta White, writer Jennifer Farmer, composer Charlotte Marlow, and musician Dirty Freud are the masterminds behind the fusion of grime, jazz, and classical opera in Link in my bio.

3. How does the show address societal issues?

Link in my bio tackles themes of gentrification, extremism, and identity crisis in post-Brexit Britain, offering a thought-provoking commentary on the challenges faced by diverse communities.

4. What is the audience’s role in the performance?

The audience is asked to scan QR codes and make decisions at critical points in the show, influencing the characters’ actions and the outcome of the story.

5. What musical genres are incorporated into the opera?

The show blends grime, jazz, classical opera, and drum ‘n’ bass to create a unique and immersive musical experience that resonates with the modern audience.

6. How does the show reflect real-life scenarios?

Link in my bio mirrors the rise of alt and far-right ideologies, the impact of hate speech on youth, and the challenges of multiculturalism in contemporary society, making it a relevant and timely production.

7. What message does the show convey to the audience?

The show prompts reflection on the consequences of divisive ideologies, the importance of unity in diversity, and the need to combat extremism through collective action.

8. How does the show engage the audience emotionally?

Link in my bio immerses the audience in a visually and sonically rich environment, evoking empathy, anger, and contemplation through its powerful storytelling and musical performances.

9. What sets Link in my bio apart from traditional operas?

The interactive nature of the show, combined with its contemporary themes and diverse musical influences, offers a fresh and innovative take on opera that resonates with a modern audience.

10. Where can I experience Link in my bio?

Link in my bio will be playing again on 8 December at 20:00, with tickets still available for those seeking a transformative and thought-provoking theatrical experience.

Tags

Cinerecap, Opera, Music, South London, Interactive, Neo-fascism