Song from the Uproar: The Lives and Deaths of Isabelle Eberhardt

This is a story about an unconventional woman staged by a company renowned for its unconventional approach to opera. Lyric Opera of Melbourne was established in 2003 and its contemporary outlook creates a space for new and emerging artists to reinvent the genre and cast attention on fresh talent and different perspectives. 

Isabelle Eberhardt (Olivia Federow-Yemm, Mezzo-Soprano) is a classic example of the turn of the century new woman who radically flouted gender norms. She was an explorer, nomad, journalist, novelist, and Sufi mystic. Her very adventurous life sadly ended at the age of 27 when she succumbed to the 1094 Algerian floods. It was not uncommon for her to dress as a man and to anger local colonial authorities. 

This chamber opera places Eberhardt completely at the centre of this remarkable story. Mazzoli’s composition fuses baroque, minimalism and indie rock which proves to be a perfect blend to convey the mood and emotions central to this text. The staging of this opera is very bleak and makes excellent use of the rustic and evocative elements of the venue. The costume choices are a little perplexing as they are more reminiscent of contemporary adolescent street wear rather than that of historical adventurers. The inventive staging relies solely on extremely effective lighting effects and an unusual use of subtitles. The effect is very striking and sits well with the mood of the music and the darkness of the story.

The musical execution is phenomenal, creating a very delicate and moving score to accompany the intense emotions on display. The singing is extremely powerful, and Federow-Yemm gives a remarkable, nuanced performance. She is beautifully supported by Lisette Bolton (Soprano), Leah Phillips (Soprano), Olive Cullen (Mezzo-Soprano), Tim Daly (Tenor), and Daniel Felton (Baritone).

Song from the Uproar brings an important historical feminist figure to the forefront and challenges the nature of operatic performance. This is a fine example of the way opera can speak to a contemporary audience in a very accessible and appealing manner.

Patricia Di Risio 

Photographer:  Jodie Hutchinson