This Summer, Omaha Under the Radar will produce its first theatrical performance, featuring baritone John J. Pearse (Kansas City), and an ensemble of virtuosic chamber musicians from Omaha. Directed by Barry Carman, costumes and design by Jenny Pool.

 

"Eight Songs for a Mad King is a monodrama by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies with a libretto by Randolph Stow, based on words of George III. One of the most celebrated and shocking examples of 20th century British music theatre, the work portrays the tragic madness of King George III as he is attempting to train his pet bullfinches how to sing. The 30-minute work is scored for a baritone using a multitude of complex extended vocal techniques covering more than five octaves.