Directions
Summer 2008

In This Issue ...

• Through the Eyes of an Elephant
• Slam-dunk Hit!
• Binti's Journey
• Letters to Africa
• Spring and Everything's New
• A New Face at Theatre Direct
• All Hands on Deck!
• Everything's Coming up Doras!
• Message from the President

Xin Wang and Alvin Crawford in Sanctuary Song.

Through the Eyes of an Elephant

SANCTUARY SONG
Composed by Abigail Richardson
Written by Marjorie Chan
June 7 - 14, 2008 / Preview June 6, 2008
Berkeley Street Theatre, Downstairs

Theatre Direct was proud to partner with Tapestry new opera works to present this world premiere in partnership with Luminato, Toronto’s Festival of Arts & Creativity.

Inspired by the true story of a remarkable 22-year friendship that culminates in a promise of freedom fulfilled and a joyful reunion when, after decades in captivity, an Asian elephant is brought to sanctuary.

Along the journey, her memories of childhood in the jungle, circus life and her solitary days in the zoo come alive through the emotional power of opera, evocative dance and stunning design.

Sanctuary Song was commissioned by Theatre Direct, with support from the Laidlaw Foundation, and developed in partnership with Tapestry new opera works with support from the Canadian Opera Creation Program at Opera.ca.

“…Richardson’s music literally speaks volumes as a tone poem of a life’s journey.”
- Paula Citron, Globe and Mail

“They say an elephant never forgets, and I’ll bet that any child you take to the new family opera Sanctuary Song won’t soon forget the strong production…Why is it sung? Music adds a richness that words alone can’t communicate....NNNN”
- Jon Kaplan, NOW Magazine

“…the first time I ever cried at the opera…this opera has grace and dignity, just like the animals it chronicles.”
- Beautiful Feet Arts Blog

Composed by Abigail Richardson
Written by Marjorie Chan
Music Directed by Wayne Strongman
Directed by Lynda Hill

Performed by:
Xin Wang (soprano)
Alvin Crawford (bass)
with Sharmila Dey & Frank Cox O’Connell

Orchestra:
Michael Schulte (violin)
Lizzie Lavado (piano)
Ryan Scott (percussion)

Original Set & Costume Design by Kelly Wolf
Original Lighting Design by Andrea Lundy
Original Video Design by Luisa Quintavalle
Choreography by Viv Moore

Stage Manager: Kathryn Westoll
Production Manager: Caroline Hollway