The Paradis Files is a brand new chamber opera delving into the life of pianist, composer and touring musician Maria-Theresia von Paradis aka The Blind Enchantress. A whirlwind of a production celebrating Paradis’ successes but also the dark twists that followed her through her life and career; from being subjected to failed attempts at a ‘cure’ to profiteering from her blindness.
As with all Graeae productions, The Paradis Files employs professional Deaf, disabled, blind and partially sighted artists to create and perform an authentic rendition of her life, with the co-writer and lead performer both being partially sighted. Touring the UK from April – May 2022, with an official world premiere at the Southbank Centre’s Queen Elizabeth Hall on 13 and 14 April, Graeae will also create a digital version for audiences unable to attend in person.
The production both raises the profile of a little known but incredible blind composer as well as employs a diverse cast and crew, it educates the wider population on what blind and partially sighted people can do and achieve.
Directed by Jenny Sealey with music by Errollyn Wallen CBE, with libretto by Nicola Werenowska and co-written by award-winning writer, journalist and historian Selina Mills. All performances creatively integrate BSL, captioning and audio description.
The Paradis Files is commissioned by The Stables, for IF: Milton Keynes International Festival. A Graeae Theatre Company production in partnership with BBC Concert Orchestra and Curve Theatre.
To book tickets visit Graeae’s website.
What we are funding
Vision Foundation is proud to fund a proportion of the costs needed to bring this production to live and digital audiences. From audio description consultancy to funding the costs of lead singer Bethan Langford (who is partially sighted) performing in the title role and the creation of the model box and textual costume book which will enable blind and partially sighted audiences to physically explore the production, braille programmes and play texts.
