Atalanta (Acts of God)

AMG Review of Atalanta (Acts of God)

"Blue" Gene Tyranny
All Music Guide

At last ! The two CD re-issue of the original vinyl set of 1985. This opera is the first New Narrative opera to be recorded live, and it's a fascinating, innovative and emotional performance. Staged at the Teatro Olimpico in Rome, Ashley's humorous, poetic and transcendental text is sung in English and Italian by the well-known baritone Thomas Buckner, Italian singer and actress Carlo Tatň, the star of several Ashley operas (as well as a talented set and costume designer) Jacqueline Humbert, and Ashley himself as narrator. Also featuring spontaneous keyboard playing by synthesist "Blue" Gene Tyranny, pre-recorded chorales, and live sound modification by Paul Shorr.

Atalanta, the princess who was discarded by her family and raised by animals to become the fastest-running human, is later reclaimed by her father in order to marry her off for dynastic purposes. She is approached by three characters from the 20th century whose personalities are presented in stories and anecdotes as they are considered for the role of the "successful suitor." These three are the surrealist painter Max Ernst, shaman storyteller (and, incidentally, a relative of Ashley's) William Reynolds, and the famed composer/pianist Bud Powell. These men also represent three aspects of the opera: image, narrative, and music. Each approaches Atalanta with specific arias: the Odalisque arias remind her of her excellence, the Character Reference arias recommend to her characteristics of excellence in men, and the Anecdotes are sung for her amusement. This is a brilliant work of subtle insights.