Requiem

26 May 2023 – 4 June 2023

REQUIEM: Journeys of the Soul

A powerful, staged re-imagining of Mozart’s iconic Requiem as Opera North and Phoenix Dance Theatre join forces with South African partners Jazzart Dance Theatre and Cape Town Opera. 

Mozart’s awe-inspiring choral masterpiece and Neo Muyanga’s new commission After Tears: After a Requiem combine with the intense expressive physicality of two leading contemporary dance ensembles in a powerful double bill. This is an emotional response to the grief experienced by so many around the world during the pandemic. 

The evening presents a fascinating perspective on the journey of the soul invoking South African cultural traditions on the themes of collective loss, the rituals of mourning and remembrance, and celebration of life. It will offer a vibrant contemporary counterpoint to the classical elegance of Mozart’s choral lament with rhythms to move us, heal us, and strengthen us for the future ahead. 

Led by Phoenix Dance Theatre guest choreographer and former artistic director Dane Hurst (West Side Story Symphonic Dances) and Opera North music director Garry Walker. 

Co-commissioned by LEEDS 2023, supported by The British Council.  

Read our Requiem – The Journey blog series and discover more behind-the-scenes content, interviews and insights into the production here.

Requiem images: Richard H. Smith. After Tears: After a Requiem images: Tristram Kenton.

Gallery

Press

“★★★★★
an unforgettably moving staging”

— The Times

“★★★★★
an exemplary collaboration”

— The Observer

“★★★★
a successful meeting of diverse cultures”

— The Guardian

“★★★★
Each piece individually is powerful; together they are sublime”

— Yorkshire Post

“world-class dancers”

— BBC Radio Leeds