Schumann Focus: Das Paradies
Fri / June 1, 2018 - 8:00PM
Dudamel teams with iconic director Peter Sellars and innovative video artist Refik Anadol for the poignant and rarely performed oratorio Das Paradies und die Peri.
Artists
- Los Angeles Philharmonic
- Gustavo Dudamel, conductor
- Peter Sellars, director
- Refik Anadol, media artist
- James F. Ingalls, lighting designer
- Lucy Crowe, peri
- Joshua Stewart, narrator
- Ying Fang, young maiden
- Benjamin Bliss, young man
- Tamara Mumford, angel
- Davóne Tines, old man
- Los Angeles Master Chorale
- Grant Gershon, Artistic Director
About this Performance
Although his life was difficult, to say the least, ending prematurely in madness, Robert Schumann nonetheless composed music that elevates us through its pure spirit and unique personal character. Over three weekends, Gustavo Dudamel delves deeply into Schumann’s four symphonies, two greatest concertos, and a rarely heard oratorio, offering us a portrait of the man through his finest creations.
The oratorio Das Paradies und die Peri (Paradise and the Peri) is seen as one of Schumann’s major achievements; even Wagner had positive words for it. The story, which originated with 19th-century Irish poet/singer Thomas Moore, was translated by Schumann and a friend. It tells of a peri – a fairy-like spirit from Persian mythology, somewhere between an angel and a devil – who has been cast out of heaven. Its only way back is by finding the gift that God will like best, which – spoiler alert! – turns out to be a tear from a repentant old sinner who has observed a child praying.
For our production, incomparable operatic mastermind Peter Sellars teams with media artist Refik Anadol to create a never-before-seen staging, bringing the season to a moving conclusion.
Schumann Focus is supported by an Edgerton Foundation grant.
These performances are made possible by generous support from the Lloyd E. Rigler – Lawrence E. Deutsch Foundation.
Pre and Post-concert Events
Inside the Music
The Inside the Music pre-concert event begins at 6:45pm on stage with Brian Lauritzen. After the concert, stay for a post-show Q&A with Brian and the artists.
Artist Spotlight
Programs, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject to change. Ticket limits may apply. All sales are final.