Tonight, the world premiere and only Providence performance of "War Music," an adaption of Christopher Logue's contemporary retelling of Homer's "The Iliad," will arrive on College Hill. The performance is the culmination of a project to convert the modern-day epic poem into a theatrical and musical presentation.
"We've turned his poem into a script, and added music, costumes and a whole staging," said Professor of Music Paul Phillips, who composed the score for the production. Phillips worked in collaboration with music ensemble Aurea, which conceived of the idea for this project.
The four founding members of Aurea are violinist Charles Sherba, viola player Consuelo Sherba, award-winning harmonica player Chris Turner and actor Nigel Gore. Phillips said the group approached him to compose an original score that would complement the unlikely combination of talents in the group and the distinctiveness of their project.
"This will bring 'The Iliad' alive in a way that has probably not happened for most people in the audience. I don't know of any other theatrical production of 'The Iliad' - there're values that present the story at a sort of distance, it's not just the Trojan War," Phillips said.
Logue blends forms in his writing, adding contemporary metaphors and references to an ancient story. Phillips takes a similar approach to his music. "I've tried to be eclectic in the music. I've tried to combine styles. I've tried to juxtapose music of all kinds, so anyone coming to the show expecting only one kind of music is going to be in for a surprise." he said.
The performance is sponsored by FirstWorks Providence, an organization dedicated to enhancing the performing arts community in Providence. "One of our main goals is to create firsts in Providence," said Executive Artistic Director Kathleen Pletcher. "War Music" is the latest in a series of premieres that FirstWorks has helped promote.
After the performance there will be an "Artists Up Close" forum, where Phillips and the members of Aurea will discuss the poetic themes of "War Music" and "The Iliad." The forum will examine how the theatrical rendition of "War Music" relates to the issues of war and conflict we are confronted with today. Professor of Anthropology William Beeman will moderate the discussion.
EVENT INFO
"War Music"
Friday, 7:30 pm
RISD Auditorium
Tickets for "War Music" are $15. A discount is available for students and seniors at www.art-tixri.com or ArtTix Box Office, 401-621-6123. Free admission to the 9pm forum following the performance.
