Scottish Opera and Opera Ventures’ co-production of Mark-Anthony Turnage’s Greek had its American premiere at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) this month.
The modern re-telling of the Oedipus myth, based on the play by Steven Berkoff, opened at Howard Gilman Opera House on December 5 for four performances as part of the multi-arts centre’s Next Wave Festival.
Greek was directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins and designed by Johannes Schütz. The New York revival was directed by Daisy Evans, and conducted by Scottish Opera Music Director, Stuart Stratford. Former Scottish Opera Emerging Artist Alex Otterburn reprised the role of Eddy in a cast also including Susan Bullock, Allison Cook and Andrew Shore.
Recognised with a coveted Critic’s Pick in The New York Times, reviewer Zachary Woolfe praised Joe Hill-Gibbins’ ‘stark, raucous staging’, whilst The Wall Street Journal commended the production’s ‘raw brutality’. Broadway World praised Stuart Stratford who ‘led soloists from The Orchestra of Scottish Opera in a performance that was as exciting as it was eviscerating’, and Classical Voice North America noted that Alex Otterburn’s acting ‘was as strong as his singing’.
Further critical acclaim for Greek at BAM:
‘Joe Hill-Gibbins’ provocative, wild production – a sensation at the 2017 Edinburgh Festival – drags Greek in to the present.’ (Seen and Heard International)
‘…Alex Otterburn makes the perfect Eddy. His powerful baritone rises to the considerable challenges of Turnage’s score, nailing top notes with never a hint of discomfort.’ (Limelight)
‘The sleek, in-your-face new production, directed by Joe Hill-Gibbins, is smashing, smartly incorporating Brexit-era touches. His use of a giant revolving wall, which gives the opera an oppressive feel, is inspired. He’s also coaxed some beautifully–etched performances from his fearless cast of four, led by a visceral, oddly moving performance by Alex Otterburn as Eddy (the Oedipus stand-in).’ (Interludes)