Korall Koral, a baby opera

2009; dur: 20'; An opera for children 0-3 years old

Korall Koral is a performance specifically created for children below the age of three and their adult companions.

They are coaxed by recorded sounds into a shell-shaped tent, where two performers with specially designed instruments create music and song. After the approx. 20 minute long performance, children and adults are invited to explore the room and instruments by themselves. The instruments resemble sea creatures; there are weird creatures such as the sea horse harp, bagpipe creature, glass chime jellyfish and double creature flute. Perhaps we are somewhere below the surface in the Arctic Ocean? There are creatures here we know very little about. The music is composed by Maja S. K. Ratkje, who is renowned for her exploration of the voice. We shape sounds to language and song in a musical game. In this opera babies and adults have equal qualifications. There is nothing to be explained or understood.

Concept, production and direction: Hanne Dieserud og Christina Lindgren
Music and composition: Maja Solveig Kjelstrup Ratkje
Set design: Christina Lindgren
Performers: Hanne Dieserud og Silje Aker Johnsen/Hanna Gjermundrød

Premiered June 4, 2009, in the foyer at the Norwegian Opera & Ballet.

Co-production: Den Norske Opera & Ballett and Riksteatret.
Supported by Norsk Kulturråd, NOTAM, Fond for utøvende kunstnere, Fond for lyd og bilde.
photos by Erik Berg
Translated review and audience comments (in English)
[intlink id="140" type="category"]Reviews (in Norwegian)[/intlink]
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