Nothing like the sun - The Sonnets February 25, 2007

Gavin Bryars curates this unique project, for which contemporary composers and musicians from across the globe set their chosen sonnets across an eclectic range of musical styles.

The music has been composed by singer/songwriter Natalie Merchant (10,000 Maniacs), Antony Hegarty (Antony and the Johnsons, Mercury Prize winners 2005), Liz Fraser (The Cocteau Twins), Irish singer/songwriter Gavin Friday and violinist Alexander Balanescu.

A chamber orchestra of eight musicians shares the stage with three guest singers and RSC actors, to present the selected sonnets in speech and song.

The second half sees the premiere of a major new commission; Gavin Bryars' Nothing Like The Sun, a through composed musical setting of a series of sonnets, accompanied by a specially commissioned film projection.

'One of the most compelling and enjoyable composers in the Northern Hemisphere'
Financial Times on Gavin Bryars

'One of our most original musical minds'
Observer on Gavin Bryars

Nothing Like The Sun runs at the Courtyard Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon from 24 - 25 February 2007 for two performances only.

Official Website: http://www.rsc.org.uk/newsandevents/events/3568.aspx