Dr Dee

Synopsis

Doctor Dee was the archetypal Renaissance Man studying the world from astrology and alchemy to physics and philosophy. His thirst for knowledge was insatiable and, as a key advisor to Elizabeth I, he is credited with providing much of the intelligence which shaped 'the British Empire' established under her rule. Dee also dabbled in the occult and, ultimately, this fascination destroyed him. Conned by a deranged medium, Dee's career ended in disgrace and sexual scandal and he died discredited and penniless.

Our Review:

2 July 2011

It is hard, at first listen, to comprehend a story told in song - that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it. But perhaps co-creators Rufus Norris (director) and Damon Albarn (composer/performer) have been wilfully opaque in their new work Dr Dee – An English Opera.
 
Musically the show is excellent. Albarn does not limit himself to composing music that reflects the atmosphere of the period in which the play is set. He takes a more timeless approach using renaissance instruments to play modern folk music and also a sweeping dramatic score pushing forward the action.
 
Albarn’s performance is less successful; his rough and ready vocals are not as audible as those of the trained opera cast. Paul Atkinson’s striking tiered set places Albarn and the musicians (whom he conducts with a clenched fist) above the performers. It is hard to see any connection between the lyrics of his songs and the...

Read more of the review

Latest User Review

Gordon Young - 13 July 2011:

It was magical visually stunning ...

Read more and add your own review

Related Whatsonstage.com Articles

A Manc on the Manchester International Festival More»