Baltasar and Blimunda IV

This piece is a collaboration between three artists from different backgrounds. Originally conceived from a narrative from Jose Saramago’s Baltasar and Blimunda a painter, dramatist, and myself as composer each present our own interpretation.

A large triptych comprises the visual aspect. Painter Julie Christensen draws on details from the narrative as well as the mood of the music to create her canvas. The dramatist Sheila Rocha likewise has the opportunity to draw upon the narrative and music as well as the reactions and atmosphere provided by the audience as she shapes her enactment. The overall effect will be a complete immersion in the expression of the original story.

My Baltasar and Blimunda are a series of pieces begun during my stay in Mexico. All of the music in these pieces are expanded from a few short cells of music which were inspired by the characters and themes in Jose Saramago’s novel.

All of the Baltasar and Blimunda pieces are loosely connected by theme but each of the pieces do not necessarily join up to form a standard narrative. Each work is an episode which works autonomously or together as a whole.

Baltasar and Blimunda IV "In Lisbon..." will be performed as part of the ARTSaha! festival this summer.