Stage Door News
Stage Door News
Toronto Masque Theatre kicks off its 9th season with a celebration of the rich legacy of a musical genius, showcasing Henry Purcell’s compelling and innovative work for the stage. Featuring Toronto Masque Theatre’s patented fusion of genres, Fairest Isle will be an exhilarating combination of dance, theatre, orchestral music and song: a chance for audiences to glimpse the Baroque splendour of the work Purcell created for London’s theatre of the time.
Although a celebrated and prolific composer, Purcell’s life was tragically cut short and we can only imagine what he would have gone on to create had he lived longer. With Fairest Isle audiences will experience the breadth of his work while contemplating the legacy he left us. The program includes pieces drawn from his semi-operas: The Fairy-Queen, Dido and Aeneas, King Arthur and The Indian Queen along with music he composed for the Church and Court.
Speaking about the program, Artistic Director, Larry Beckwith had the following to say: “Purcell’s music is so full of genius, craft, warmth and humour. He was so adept at supporting the meaning of the great – and sometimes not so great! – texts he worked with. The tunes are memorable and moving, the instrumental writing is first-rate, and the overall thrust of his work is lively and full of humanity. I look forward to sharing this great music with our audiences.”
In keeping with our commitment to public engagement, Beckwith, joined by special guests, will host a pre-show chat 45 minutes before each performance.
The program will feature tenor Lawrence Wiliford and the musical director will be Larry Beckwith. The evening will also feature dancer Marie-Nathalie Lacoursière, actors Derek Boyes and Arlene Mazzerolle, singers Dawn Bailey and Michele DeBoer, sopranos; Scott Belluz, countertenor; Charles Davidson, tenor; Geoffrey Sirret, baritone. The Ensemble will include: Larry Beckwith and Kathleen Kajioka, violins; Margaret Gay, cello; John Abberger and Gillian Howard, oboes; Lucas Harris, lute; and Christopher Bagan, harpsichord and organ.
Lighting design is by Gabriel Cropley; Costume and Production design by Erika Connor.
Fairest Isle: A Purcell Celebration
What Toronto Masque Theatre opens their 2012/13 Season with Fairest Isle a celebration of the life and the music of Henry Purcell created for the theatre.
When Friday, November 16th & Saturday, November 17th, 8pm. A pre-show chat with Artistic Director Larry Beckwith and guests will be held 45 minutes before both performances.
Where The Al Green Theatre; 750 Spadina Avenue (at Bloor).
How Tickets: $40; $35 (for seniors) and $20 (for under 30) available from the Al Green Box Office, 416-924-6211 ext. 0. Information on subscription tickets for all three TMT available from Toronto Masque Theatre website or by phoning 416 410 4561.
Who For more information on Toronto Masque Theatre please go to our website.
Photo: Lawrence Wiliford.
2012-10-11
Toronto: Toronto Masque Theatre presents “Fairest Isle: A Purcell Celebration” November 16 & 17