This unique and intriguing work is one of four ‘fashion/operas’ by Scottish composer Alastair White (b. 1988) following the highly acclaimed releases of ROBE and WOAD. As with the whole cycle of works, White’s opera is advanced not only in its musical sound-world but also in his self-penned librettos which transform the story into surrealist and impressionist poetry.

This is an audio version of the live premiere production which was presented as part of Tête-à-Tête Opera Festival 2021, but with remastered HD sound. (The full video version will be available at a later date.)

Synopsis: On a planet where history is forbidden, a young girl dares to tell her story. A voyage across galaxies and millennia, hers is a tale of the archipelagos of Khye-rell and their matterwork, through transdimensional canals and sealanes to the RUNE of the universe’s origin. This song, her story – through the very act of being told – will have consequences beyond imagining…

Alastair White’s work has been described as ‘virtuosic’ (Winnipeg Free Press) and ‘passionately atonal’ (Gramophone). His work has been shortlisted for a number of art awards and several critics have praised White for effectively creating a new sub-genre of staged musical works.

The two main characters are supported by a trio of pianos, creating a virtuosic and unique backdrop to the sung and spoken libretto. The performance includes dance and original fashion design and is a visual spectacular.