Igor Stravinsky’s Neoclassical masterpiece based on Sophocles was written in 1927. In this version, which was adapted by
Jean Cocteau with English subtitles by e.e. cummings, Julie Taymor (of Broadway’s The Lion King fame) created a distinctive
work for the Saito Kinen Festival, in Matsumoto, Japan. It incorporates singers, actors, dancers and mime with the use
Igor Stravinsky’s Neoclassical masterpiece based on Sophocles was written in 1927. In this version, which was adapted by
Jean Cocteau with English subtitles by e.e. cummings, Julie Taymor (of Broadway’s The Lion King fame) created a distinctive
work for the Saito Kinen Festival, in Matsumoto, Japan. It incorporates singers, actors, dancers and mime with the use
of brilliantly designed masks, costumes and sets. Taymor further infuses a sense of awe with the use of elements of Butoh in
the choreography and directing. For those who want to stay there are an additional interviews with Taymor, Jessye Norman
and Seiji Ozawa.
Japan, USA, (2005)
Latin and Japanese with English subtitles. 58 minutes. (Documentary: 59 minutes).
Composer: Igor Stravinsky; Director: Julie Taymor
With Jessye Norman, Philip Langridge, Bryn Terfel, conducted by Seji Ozawa.
