BRETT BAILEY
PERFORMANCE – MUSIC – VISUAL ARTS
THE STRANGER is Brett Bailey’s contemporary theatrical reimagining of the myth of Orpheus — a story of music, displacement and transformation.
Bailey envisions a series of distinct versions of the work, each created in a different part of the world with local performers, musicians and artists. Rooted in the musical, theatrical, aesthetic, spiritual and political context of each place, every incarnation becomes its own reflection of the city in which it is made. At its centre is Orpheus, the mythical outsider: in each city, the role is played by an immigrant or visiting musician, composer or singer.
THE STRANGER tells of the arrival of the first poet-musician in a fast-paced, industrialised and xenophobic city. His music transforms the urban landscape: birds, trees, rocks and animals gather around him, mesmerised, while people are calmed and their minds stilled. Through music, the stranger begins to alter the world around him.
Ritualistic in form and strongly visual and musical, THE STRANGER can be performed indoors or outdoors, in a theatre or a found space. Each version brings together 10 performers, including local artists.
Running time: under 120 minutes.
CREDITS
Created, Written & Directed: Brett Bailey
Music: Nkosenathi Koela (Mntana.Wexhwele)
Producer: Barbara Mathers
Production: Third World Bunfight
With support from: National Lotteries Commission