MICHAEL BERKELEY

For You

Libretto by Ian McEwan

Alan Opie (baritone)

Christopher Lemmings (tenor)

Rachel Nicholls (soprano)

Helen Williams (soprano)

Jeremy Huw Williams (baritone)

Allison Cook (mezzo soprano)

Music Theatre Wales / Michael Rafferty

For You is a new opera that brings together the music of composer and BBC Radio 3 presenter Michael Berkeley and Booker-prize winning author Ian McEwan. This gripping tale of love, lust and obsession centers on the composer and prodigious womaniser Charles Frieth (Alan Opie), and the tragic consequences that his selfish actions cause him and those around.

Although essentially dark, there are moments of irony, wit and humour throughout the opera. Soaring vocal lines, intricate ensemble piece, and imaginative instrumental writing make this an electrifying work.

“For You is a dark opera worth waiting for” Evening Standard

“… a dazzling and taut chamber piece which gives passionate way to Bergian lyricism while referencing both Britten and Richard Strauss in its airy, word-driven vocal lines.” The Independent

“This is pithy, witty stuff: McEwan skewers these characters to his blackly comic canvas in typically concise fashion. ... Berkeley’s palette—all fevered chromaticism, suspenseful ostinatos and fierce but eminently singable vocal lines—is a heady concoction.” The Times

“an absorbing and effective black comedy of rare narrative clarity, accompanied by some skilfully wrought music ... Berkeley’s score is confident, lively, and clever” Daily Telegraph

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