Sum
Wayne McGregor directs Max Richter's unique new chamber opera, which takes its inspiration from neuroscientist David Eagleman's bestselling book of short stories about the possibilities of the afterlife.
Introduction
Sum: Forty Tales From the Afterlives is a thought-provoking meditation on what happens to us after we die. The book’s ideas are brought out through music, film and performance in a series of intriguing scenarios.
News and features
Wayne McGregor and Max Richter collaborate for Barbican installation
Duo present dance piece for the Rain Room.
Audience reactions: Sum world premiere
We asked audience members at the opening night of Wayne McGregor and Max Richter's Sum for their thoughts.
Listen: Max Richter on Sum
Composer talks about his new collaboration with Wayne McGregor, as well as previewing extracts.
Wayne McGregor on Sum: "A brilliant collision"
The choreographer-turned-opera director on his collaboration with Max Richter, based on David Eagleman's book.
Background
The contemporary experimental composer Max Richter and The Royal Ballet's Resident Choreographer Wayne McGregor create a fascinating new chamber opera for the Linbury Studio Theatre. The project takes its inspiration from American neuroscientist David Eagleman's cult book of short stories Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives, a collection of witty, clever and thought-provoking ideas on what an 'afterlife' could be. The result is an intriguing vision from McGregor, Richter and renowned artist Lorna Heavey of a possible journey after death, populated by computers, suburban anterooms and mind-stretching scenarios. Using music, film and performance, Sum explores an interactive audience experience and takes opera to a whole new level of existence.
Guidance
This production contains amplified sound effects and music
Running time
About 1 hour 20 mins | No interval
Based on the book by David Eagleman
Credits
| Director | Wayne McGregor |
| Composer | Max Richter |
| Libretto | David Eagleman |
| Libretto | Max Richter |
| Libretto | Wayne McGregor |
| Designs | Lorna Heavey |
| Lighting design | Lucy Carter |
Related links
- www.thisislondon.co.uk Sum - review - Evening Standard
- www.wired.co.uk Sum - Wired magazine
- en.wikipedia.org Sum (Book) - Wikipedia
