The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra's collaboration with the multi-award-winning 1927 Studios proved to be a resounding success, transforming Olivier Messiaen's complex Turangalîla-symphonie into a vibrant feast for the senses. The performance took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London as part of the Southbank's Multitudes festival, pairing the composer's emotionally intense score with a hyperactive animated film.
A Triumphant Fusion of Music and Film
Messiaen's Turangalîla-symphonie, inspired by the legend of Tristan and Isolde, spans 80 minutes and culminates in a joyous celebration of love. Under the baton of Vasily Petrenko, the orchestra navigated the score's intricacies with clarity and precision, never losing sight of the composer's vivid colors. Elastic tempos created powerful climaxes, while pianist Steven Osborne delivered sparkling cadenzas, complemented by Cécile Lartigau's eerie ondes Martenot glissandos cutting through the orchestral texture.
The Silent Movie Homage
The film, a witty tribute to the golden age of silent cinema, was projected above the stage. Its feverish narrative of reluctant brides, knights, and kings initially seemed overwhelming, but by the second movement, it became clear that the visuals were perfectly attuned to the music's emotional pulse. The synchronization between film and orchestra was so precise that audiences could relax and enjoy the spectacle.
The imagery combined live-action characters reminiscent of Gloria Swanson, Douglas Fairbanks, and Lon Chaney with surreal stop-motion collages akin to Monty Python. In one scene, Petrenko appeared in the film and winked at the audience; in another, blood-red roses sprouted from the lovers. The genius lay in how these playful visuals harmonized with Messiaen's intoxicating music.
The Multitudes festival continues at the Southbank Centre until 30 April.
