First Act

Like Opera Interna, this project also explores the point at which the bodily experience of self meets, and intersects with, the performed identity of a character.

This series of still (silent) images was shot on stage between rehearsals for the opera Don Giovanni. Singers performed individually for the camera, singing parts of the opera most appropriate to express a combination of character and performer.The manipulative and seductive power of opera lies in a combination of music and theatre that provokes an emotional response in both performers and audience. The work examines the various layers of ‘phantom self’ that appear as a singer physicalises the emotions of the character he or she is performing.

Made possible by a residency at Opera North, Leeds.

Eight C-Type photographs mounted on aluminium. Each 72 x 90cm.