We delve into the profound world of artistic exploration as we accompany a dedicated researcher on their journey to decipher the essence of ‘Dido’s Lament’ from Henry Purcell and Nahum Tate’s opera, ‘Dido and Aeneas.’ Drawing inspiration from Ben Spatz’s concept of embodied research, we witness a captivating process of inquiry into the capabilities of the human body. Through meticulous historical research, personal analysis, and years of practice, the researcher internalizes and expresses this centuries-old composition through movement, song, and emotion. This Early Modern masterpiece, once considered a static artifact, now comes alive as a dynamic, multi-dimensional experience. Through the lens of Nina Eidsheim’s ‘thick sonic event,’ we witness an attempt to unravel deeply ingrained performance traditions, hierarchies, and soundscapes. Can embodied research challenge these norms and provide a more authentic, multifaceted understanding of this iconic piece of music? Join us on a journey of discovery and transformation as we explore the boundaries of artistic expression and interpretation.
Writer & narrator: Inga Marie Nesmann-Aas
Composer, supervising sound editor & videographer: Robin Rolfhamre
a solidskillsy. production 2023
