Man, does this sound amazing – Gorllaz co-creators, Damon Albarn (Blur) and Jamie Hewlett (Tank Girl) are premiering their new opera “Monkey: Journey To The West” at the Manchester International Festival in 2 weeks. Looking at the Wikipedia article, this thing sounds like it’s gonna be a true spectacle, with animation, live action, acrobatics and a full musical orchestra. Here’s hoping they decide to do an international tour once the festival is over
From the creators of Gorillaz, Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett with acclaimed director Chen Shi-Zheng, this dazzling new opera premieres at the Manchester International Festival on 28th June – 7th July. Based on the ancient Chinese legend (and popular 80s TV series) of the Monkey King, this epic journey to enlightenment features Monkey, Pigsy, Sandy, Tripitaka and a cast of more than 70 musicians, singers, Chinese martial artists, acrobats and contortionists (Dalian National Circus of China). Working within the operatic tradition, it is entirely groundbreaking with its mix of live action and animation.
