Blur and Gorillaz front man, Damon Albarn, has just staged the premiere of “Dr Dee” at the Palace Theatre in Manchester, UK. BBC News describe the show as “an ambitious stage show that combines his acoustic pop with contemporary opera to tell the story of an Elizabethan hero” and goes on to say that “The show sees the Blur singer peform songs on a platform above the stage while actors and opera singers take part in an elaborate production below.”
Albarn has described “Dr Dee” as “the most difficult challenge and the most important project of his career” and has spoken of his fascination with Dee and the way that he had a “lasting influence on English identity”.
The show is one of the showpiece productions of the Manchester International Festival and can be seen in Manchester until the 9th July. Next June, it will open at the London Coliseum as part of the London 2012 Festival for the Cultural Olympiad. See the BBC news report at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-13996665 or the Manchester International Festival website for more details.
You can find out more about the fascinating Dr John Dee in “John Dee – A Biographical Sketch”
THis sounds wonderful! I, too, am fascinated by Dr. Dee and he figures right prominently in the novel I’m working on–he got into some kinky stuff! Wife-swapping among them. Wish I could see this!
Da iawn and Beautiful Mr Damien Albarn of Blur! So refreshing to hear you bestowing credence to this Genius of Britsh-World history
As predicted this genius of Welsh-British origins is finally receiving a dignified re-birthing for his epic contribution to World history
May I also draw your attention to a street perfomance called ‘MAGIK” about Dee and the Welsh-Mandan indian connection throughout Wales, as we speak. It is being performed by Cardif’s SWICA group of artists, performers and magicians. Get D.W Daviesing and google the dates!!
Dee or Die….?
To Claire, to Ap Harry( Mr Parry). to you Mr Albarn…………..helping to reshape, restore and dignify Delightful Dee
Neil Ap Jones…….just passing through
(Greats of Wales)