Russian modernist texts and English contemporary opera

[A.Smith]

I'm wondering whether Dr Thomas Keen came across the opera based on
Pasternak's narrative...It seems to me that Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber is not
going to be the first UK composer to be inspired by Russian modernism...
See, for example, this advert
(http://www.musictheatrewales.org.uk/electrification.html):

"During the Summer and Autumn 2002. Music Theatre Wales toured The
Electrification of the Soviet Union. This was a new chamber version by Nigel
Osborne, commissioned by Music Theatre Wales.

Based on the work of Boris Pasternak, The Electrification of the Soviet
Union is a Dr Zhivago for opera. Personal and social turmoil combine for a
young Russian poet: the world is poised on the brink of war and his search
for meaning in life and love remains unfulfilled. Russia; 1914; the
beginning of the modern age - the world will never be the same again, but
how will the individual survive with their dreams and beliefs intact?

Osborne and Raine's treatment of Russia's epic story draws an intimate
portrait of ordinary lives, which facing out this time of change, have
become extraordinary. Reminiscent of Kurt Weill at his most passionate and
personal, this work seethes with emotion and power. The Electrification of
the Soviet Union is a work to excite the emotions and exercise the mind.

Music Theatre Wales has commissioned a new chamber version of The
Electrification of the Soviet Union, a work originally commissioned by the
BBC for Glyndebourne."

Best,
AS

Alexandra Smith  (PhD, University of London)

Lecturer in Russian
Department of Russian and Slavonic Studies
University of Sheffield

Alexandra.Smith at sheffield.ac.uk

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