Entertainment Pulling strings
British-born Chinese violinists and composers CHi2 presented a modern interpretation of Beijing Opera with a unique take on the 16th Century classic tale of the Monkey King in Selby on May 17.
The duo, who have previously toured and recorded with Moby, Boy George, Goldfrapp, Nelly Furtado and Gnarls Barkley, have spent four years preparing the story, probably best known to UK audiences as the 70s tv show "Monkey", for its blast-off into the 21st Century.
Prior to the concert, Selby Town Hall Arts officer Chris Jones said he was delighted to have secured the performers, who use a fusion of traditional and modern sounds, employing musicians, actors, acoustic and electric instruments, along with a visual spectacle of film and digital media, to interpret Chinese opera - one of the world's oldest known art forms.
Following a sell-out London launch, the show has appeared at just a 'handful' of venues around the country, adding to the feeling of yet another coup for the Town Hall.
But how did this sonic and visual melting pot, originating from the other side of the world, come across to a Yorkshire audience? Our reviewer, a violin player herself, entered the Town Hall, with some trepidation.
She explained that she understood Chinese music to be technically different from Western music and it could tend to sound odd to European ears.
But she said her fears quickly proved to be unfounded, and despite the initial apprehension she fully enjoyed the experience.
"It was evident that the two violinists (Liz and Sarah Liew) were accustomed to playing with and sparking off each other," she said.
Keyboards, electronic beats, percussion and vocals were used to complete the sound, although it appeared a problem meant the percussion section overwhelmed the violins in the first half.
Our reviewer continued: "However after the break this was resolved and we were able to enjoy the concert.
"The addition of a visual show with the recital made an interesting twist, although personally I found it a little distracting from the music.
"Altogether it was an enjoyable evening, and great to have such a high calibre of music in Selby instead of having to travel to York or Leeds. Keep it up Selby Town Council."
Published on 29th May 2008 in Ents.
Add to: Digg | del.icio.us | Reddit
Comments
There are currently no comments
Comment
All comments are subject to moderation (during normal office hours) and may be amended.
Email addresses are required for administration purposes only.
By contributing your comments, you accept our terms and conditions.