Review: The Sea By BK Opera And Forest Collective @ Abbotsford Convent (Melbourne)

'The Sea' - Image © Andrew Signor
Melbourne/ Naarm-based entertainment writer, unravelling the city's cultural kaleidoscope through words. Weaving tales of creativity, events, and personalities that make Naarm shine.

Prepare to be spellbound as 'The Sea', an immersive opera collaboration between Forest Collective and BK Opera, beckons audiences to embark on an enthralling voyage into the depths of human connection and power.


Composer Evan J Lawson's rich and evocative melodies serve as a captivating mirror reflecting the complexities of the human soul. The opera, directed by the visionary Kate Millett, masterfully unveils the raw and turbulent nature of relationships, where love, lust, and power collide.

Lawson's musical prowess impeccably balances classical opulence with dynamic, cutting-edge sounds, providing a one-of-a-kind and contemporary opera experience. The collaboration with poet Nicole Butcher adds a haunting layer to the narrative, capturing the intricate interplay of emotions and power dynamics within relationships. As the waves of music crash over the audience, they are swept away into a world of life’s mysteries, where beauty and chaotic turbulence of human connection unfold.

The stellar cast, featuring the talents of Daniel Szesiong Todd, Aleise Bright, Henry Shaw, Archie Rumsam, Amanda Windred, and SODA, breathes life into the narrative with performances that are nothing short of compelling. Each member of the ensemble contributes to the operatic tapestry, embodying the complexity of their characters and the emotional nuances of the storyline. The inclusion of musicians from Forest Collective enhances the immersive experience, elevating the opera to new heights.

The Sea 2
Image © Andrew Signor

Forest Collective, a visionary non-profit artistic company based in Naarm-Melbourne, stands as a beacon for diversity and artistic freedom in contemporary classical music, dance, and collaborative projects. Led by the talented composer and conductor Evan J Lawson, the collective's commitment to nurturing under-represented artists and fostering a safe space for creative expression is evident in the powerful resonance of 'The Sea'.

The collaboration between Forest Collective and BK Opera, presented at the Abbotsford Convent, is a testament to the power of cross-disciplinary collaborations. The opera challenges and inspires, creating authentic and unexpected experiences for its audience. 'The Sea' is a shining example of their dedication to pushing artistic boundaries.

'The Sea' is an unmissable opera that plunges its audience into a world of heightened emotion, potent power dynamics, and the intricate dance of human connection.

With its evocative music, haunting poetry, and an ensemble cast that delivers nothing short of brilliance, this collaboration between Forest Collective and BK Opera stands as a testament to the awe-inspiring possibilities inherent in contemporary classical music. Immerse yourself and let the waves of 'The Sea' engulf you in this extraordinary and thought-provoking production, that promises to leave an indelible mark on the soul.

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