Shakespeare’s Eternal Symphony: A Night of Words and Music That Transcends Time
There’s something profoundly moving about hearing Shakespeare’s words set to music. It’s as if the Bard’s genius, already timeless in its written form, finds a new dimension when it’s sung. Last Sunday’s performance of Such Stuff as Dreams: An Evening with the Bard by the Colombo Philharmonic Choir was a testament to this—a seamless blend of spoken word and song that felt less like a concert and more like a journey through the human experience. Personally, I think what made this event so remarkable was its ability to bridge centuries, proving that Shakespeare’s influence isn’t just literary; it’s a living, breathing force that continues to inspire composers, musicians, and audiences alike.
The Venue: An Unlikely Acoustic Ally
One thing that immediately stands out is the choice of venue—the British Council Library. At first glance, it might seem an unconventional space for a choral performance, but here’s where the magic happened. The relatively dry acoustics, which could have been a challenge, became a strength. Instead of drowning the choir in reverb, it amplified their precision. Every consonant, every phrase, every nuance of Shakespeare’s language was crystal clear. This wasn’t just a technical achievement; it was a reminder that sometimes, less is more. In a world where grand venues often overshadow the performance itself, this intimate setting allowed the music and words to take center stage.
A Programme That Defied Expectations
What many people don’t realize is how deeply Shakespeare’s works have permeated the musical world. This concert wasn’t just a recital of his plays; it was a curated exploration of how his words have inspired composers across centuries. From Thomas Arne to Paul Mealor, the programme showcased the astonishing breadth of musical responses to Shakespeare’s poetry. What this really suggests is that the Bard’s influence isn’t confined to literature—it’s a cultural phenomenon that transcends genres.
The Power of Spoken Word
The inclusion of spoken texts by Pia Hatch and Rohan Ponniah was a masterstroke. Ponniah, a stalwart of Sri Lankan theatre, brought a gravitas to the verses that felt both authoritative and accessible. His delivery wasn’t theatrical in the traditional sense; it was measured, almost conversational, yet deeply resonant. Pia Hatch, on the other hand, added a warmth and sensitivity that balanced the evening beautifully. Together, they made the spoken word feel integral, not just a filler between songs. If you take a step back and think about it, this is what Shakespeare’s works demand—a performance that honors both the written and the spoken word.
Harin Amirthanathan: The Conductor as Storyteller
The success of any choral performance hinges on its conductor, and Harin Amirthanathan proved why he’s one of Sri Lanka’s most promising talents. What makes this particularly fascinating is his ability to shape not just the music, but the narrative. A choir, after all, is a collection of individual voices, and Amirthanathan’s skill lies in transforming them into a single, cohesive instrument. This isn’t just technical prowess; it’s an art form. His vision for the evening was clear: to create an emotional journey that moved effortlessly between wit, melancholy, romance, and celebration.
Vocal Highlights That Stole the Show
Among the many standout moments, Anagi Perera’s rendition of Schubert’s Who is Sylvia? was a revelation. Her performance wasn’t just technically flawless; it was deeply felt. There’s a reason Schubert’s setting of Shakespeare’s words is so enduring, and Perera’s interpretation captured its essence perfectly. Another detail that I find especially interesting is how George Shearing’s Songs and Sonnets brought the evening to a close with such exuberance. It was a reminder that Shakespeare’s works can be both profound and joyful, often at the same time.
A Broader Reflection: Why This Matters
This concert wasn’t just about celebrating Shakespeare; it was about celebrating the enduring power of art to connect us across time and space. In my opinion, what we witnessed was a testament to the idea that great art isn’t static—it evolves, adapts, and continues to inspire. The Colombo Philharmonic Choir’s performance was a reminder that Shakespeare’s words aren’t just to be read; they’re to be heard, sung, and felt.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Such Collaborations
This raises a deeper question: What if more performances embraced this hybrid format? Combining spoken word with music isn’t new, but it’s rarely done with this level of thoughtfulness. From my perspective, this could be a blueprint for future events—a way to make classical works more accessible without compromising their integrity.
Final Thoughts
As the evening drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the performers, for the curators, and for Shakespeare himself. This wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience—a reminder that art, in all its forms, has the power to transcend time and touch our souls. Personally, I think this is what makes events like these so important. They’re not just entertainment; they’re a celebration of humanity’s shared cultural heritage. And in a world that often feels fragmented, that’s something worth holding onto.
