Peter Louis van Dijk: Mandela Trilogy, Act 1
Mike Campbell: Mandela Trilogy, Act 2
Peter Louis van Dijk: Mandela Trilogy, Act 3
The life of Nelson Mandela is brought to the stage in an epic operatic tribute.
Wales Millennium Centre and Cape Town Opera present the story of one of the world’s most iconic figures.
It follows Mandela from tribal initiation rites on the banks of the Mbashe River and heady and rebellious jazz-fuelled days in Sophiatown, to incarceration and reflection on Robben Island and finally freedom and liberation.
Cape Town Opera’s celebration of Mandela’s life is a spectacular portrait of a man who touched hearts and minds around the world. Presented in three parts, by a cast of over 60 performers including three different incarnations of Mandela, the contrasting phases of his journey are recreated through strikingly divergent styles of music.
The upbeat jazz- and swing-influenced songs of Sophiatown in the central section of the piece are framed on either side by more familiar contemporary opera forms. A dash of authentic Xhosa folk music grounds the production in the sounds and culture of South Africa.
The work of two different composers, Mandela Trilogy reflects both a life of extraordinary contrasts, and an overarching theme of unflinching courage in the face of adversity.
**** ‘… one of the great stories of our time’ (Guardian)
**** ‘… an inspirational journey towards liberation’ (Independent)
‘Cape Town Opera’ chorus is quite magnificent’ (Telegraph)
Audio Description
The performance on Saturday 3 September is audio described. Concessionary access tickets and specific seating requirements can be arranged through our free Access Scheme. To join the scheme or find out more, email accesslist@southbankcentre.co.uk or call the Ticket Office on 020 7960 4200.
Audio described performance is delivered by Sightlines.
Wednesday 31 August – Saturday 3 September
Performers
Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra
12 ensemble
Tim Murray conductor, 31 Aug, 1 & 3 Sep
Alex Fokkens conductor, 2 Sep
Cape Town Opera Chorus
Michael Williams director, librettist
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