Angel’s Bone

We are preparing for a singular experience in Du Yun’s operatic work, which offers a stark and modern allegory regarding human trafficking and exploitation. You will hear a soundscape that deliberately breaks away from traditional operatic boundaries, incorporating elements of punk, electronics, and choral textures to tell its story. The narrative focuses on two celestial beings who find themselves trapped in a domestic basement after falling to earth, where they are subsequently mistreated by their human discoverers. You should listen for the way the score shifts between moments of delicate beauty and abrasive, high-energy passages that reflect the visceral nature of the subject matter. The evening is shaped as a psychological thriller, intended to provoke thought and direct engagement with difficult social realities. At a concise length, the performance maintains a high level of intensity throughout, ensuring the dramatic weight of the angels' plight remains central to the musical experience without the formal pauses of a longer production.

English National Opera presents this production at their resident home, featuring a cast led by Allison Cook, Rodney Earl Clarke, and Mariam Wallentin, alongside Matthew McKinney and Keith Pun. The company is recognised for its commitment to making opera accessible and performing works that speak to contemporary life. Conductor Baldur Brönnimann leads the ensemble, bringing his significant experience with complex modern scores to the podium. The soloists are known for their ability to handle vocally demanding roles that require both traditional technique and the flexibility to meet the varied stylistic demands of a twenty-first-century score.

The performance takes place at the London Coliseum and lasts approximately 75 minutes. This shorter duration makes it an ideal choice if you prefer a concise evening without an interval. Given the specific themes of the plot, you should expect a production that feels more like a gritty drama than a conventional staged opera. As is standard at this venue, the work will be performed in English. There is no formal dress code required, so you are welcome to wear whatever makes you feel comfortable for a night at the theatre in the city.