Toronto Masque Theatre kicks off its 9th season with a celebration of the rich legacy of a musical genius, showcasing Henry Purcell’s compelling and innovative work for the stage. Featuring Toronto Masque Theatre’s patented fusion of genres, Fairest Isle will be an exhilarating combination of dance, theatre, orchestral music and song: a chance for audiences to glimpse the Baroque splendour of the work Purcell created for London’s theatre of the time.
Although a celebrated and prolific composer, Purcell’s life was tragically cut short and we can only imagine what he would have gone on to create had he lived longer. With Fairest Isle audiences will experience the breadth of his work while contemplating the legacy he left us. The program includes pieces drawn from his semi-operas: The Fairy-Queen, Dido and Aeneas, King Arthur and The Indian Queen along with music he composed for the Church and Court.
Speaking about the program, Artistic Director, Larry Beckwith shared: “Purcell’s music is so full of genius, craft, warmth and humour. He was so adept at supporting the meaning of the great – and sometimes not so great! – texts he worked with. The tunes are memorable and moving, the instrumental writing is first-rate, and the overall thrust of his work is lively and full of humanity. I look forward to sharing this great music with our audiences.”
Prior to each performance, Beckwith will host a pre-show during which he will be joined by special guests. The pre-show chats will last approximately 45 minutes.
The program will feature tenor Lawrence Wiliford. The evening will also feature dancer Marie-Nathalie Lacoursière, actors Derek Boyes and Arlene Mazzerolle, singers Dawn Bailey and Michele DeBoer, sopranos; Scott Belluz, countertenor; Charles Davidson, tenor; Geoffrey Sirret, baritone.
The Ensemble will include: Larry Beckwith, as musical director and on violin, as well as, Kathleen Kajioka, violin; Margaret Gay, cello; John Abberger and Gillian Howard, oboes; Lucas Harris, lute; and Christopher Bagan, harpsichord and organ. Lighting design is by Gabriel Cropley; Costume and Production design by Erika Connor.
Catch Fairest Isle at the Al Green Theatre for two performances only: Friday, November 16 and Saturday, November 17 at 8pm. Ticket are: $40; $35 (for seniors) and $20 (for under 30) available from the Al Green Box Office, or by calling 416-924-6211 ext. 0.
