“A 21st century Puccini.” Le Figaro
 

Oscar-winning composer Tan Dun returns to conduct the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in a sumptuous modern opera, Tea: A Mirror of Soul.

In this beautiful and timeless story of the ill-fated love between Lan, a Chinese princess, and Seikyo, a Japanese monk, the ancient Book of Tea provides the metaphor through which love, death and religion are all explored.

Lavish costumes, evocative lighting and a graceful set, all designed by a superb European creative team, create a magical atmosphere in which the accomplished international cast performs. They are joined on stage by three Japanese percussionists playing ceramic, stone and paper instruments. Tan Dun’s ingenuity as a composer is highlighted by a score that will surprise and delight audiences.

Sung in English, the enchanting libretto follows the 20-year span of Seikyo and Lan’s love affair, from its passionate beginnings to its heart wrenching conclusion.

Tea: A Mirror of Soul has been described by international critics as “captivating” and “ethereal".

 

Savour every moment.

 

Stage Percussionists - Haruka Fujii, Rika Fujii, Tamao Inano

 

If this event interests you, our Artistic Director also recommends Pre-show dialogue with Composer/Conductor Tan Dun, The Orchestra for the Age of Enlightenment, James MacMillan Conducts, Zeibekiko, The Telecom Season of Eraritjaritjaka, The TV3 Season of Tristan & Yseult, New Zealand String Quartet Concert One and Parsifal.

 

Photo credit: © Gérard Amsellem-F/Lyon

 

25 Feb, 8:00pm
27 Feb, 8:00pm
01 Mar, 8:00pm