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Gloom and Satire Reaches the New York Philharmonic Stage
Alan Gilbert conducts Le Grand Macabre
Just in time to join the vampires, werewolves and apocalyptic scenarios that have been recently adorning our screens, Le Grand Macabre, conducted by Alan Gilbert, makes its New York City premiere at the New York Philharmonic.
Written by György Ligeti and translated by Geoffery Skelton, the storyline follows Nekrotzar, an everyman, to the surreal, morbid kingdom of Breughelland. Facing the end of the world, the town has become filled with filth and vagrants. On Nekrotzar’s journey he meets some curious characters such as the drunken Piet the Pot, the kingdom’s adolescent obese ruler, Prince Go-Go; Astradamors, the transvestite astronomer and his nymphomaniac wife, Mecalina. Despite its gloomy nature, the tone of the performance is light, carefully dancing between the severity of impeding doom and a farce.
In line with the larger-than-life spirit, the performance will be accompanied by a live animation. Created by Giants Are Small, there will be a projection of real time footage of puppeteer miniature elements. This is only enhanced by original costumes designed by Catherine Zuber and lighting by Clifton Taylor. These different aspects have been expertly designed and meticulously executed. All of these aspects combined create a Tim Burton-esque New York Philharmonic experience not intended for your grandfather. Whether to simply enjoy a fantastical night out or to prepare for 2012, this production is sure to illuminate the senses.
Le Grand Macabre will be conducted on May 27 at 7:30 p.m. and the 28th and the 29th at 8:00 p.m.. In addition to the performances, Alan Gilbert and Douglas Fitch will be hosting a conversation on May 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the Stanley H. Kaplan Penthouse. To purchase tickets, visit nyphil.org or call 212-875-5656.