Free Opera on the Piazza
Let’s set the scene. It’s a glorious summer’s evening in the heart of historic Covent Garden and you’re watching some of Britain’s finest performers showcasing a brand new work that fuses opera, dance and music. Oh, and did we mention that this cool cultural event is absolutely free?
Friday 9th and Saturday 10th of July sees the Royal Opera House stage four abridged performances of Pleasure’s Progress, (intriguingly sub-titled A Tale of Sex!, Wigs!, Wags! ‘n’ Bawds! ) on the North East corner of the Piazza. This latest work by director and choreographer Will Tuckett, explores the colourful and bawdy world of the English painter, printmaker and satirist William Hogarth.
Tuckett’s inspiration came from Hogarth’s dark pictorial narratives, some of which featured historic Covent Garden scenes. Among the famous works which have been channelled for this dance-theatre spectacular are: A Rake’s Progress, Marriage à la Mode, A Harlot’s Progress and Beer Street and Gin Lane. The result is a heady mix of stories and characters shot through with ribald fun and some pointed social comment.
It’s the perfect setting for a Hogarth-inspired opera. Indeed, one of his most famous series of paintings, Four Times of the Day, features a prudish spinster making her way through Covent Garden’s Piazza past revellers from the previous night. The fascinating thing about the picture is how little the area has changed; a testament to the sensitive planning protocol employed by Covent Garden’s landlords.
The opera itself is devised for four dancers (who also sing), three singers (who also dance) and two live musicians, showcasing the different art forms of the Opera House. Each performance lasts around 40 minutes. No booking is required and members of the audience are free to come and go as they please. We’re guessing, though, that opera fans and the just plain curious alike will remain captivated throughout this very special performance. Pleasure’s Progress will be performed twice per evening on the nights of Friday 9th and Saturday 10th July, at 7pm and 9pm. Arrive early to be sure of getting the best view!
Full length version can be seen at the Linbury Studio Theatre, Royal Opera House, 23-26th September 2010 www.roh.org.uk
Image – Jon Bausor after Hogarth
