The Curious Bards

Having explored Northern European folk music and its dialogue with learned traditions, The Curious Bards are now celebrating a decade of research and creation by revisiting their own repertoire.

This anniversary stage show, entitled Misneach - a Gaelic word evoking courage and fortitude - offers a sensitive immersion into the musical world of 18th-century Ireland and Scotland, through a selection of emblematic pieces carried by the voice of Ilektra Platiopoulou. In the course of the concert, tunes such as Mable Kelly and Daughters Lament mingle with a contemporary scenic creation incorporating video, theater and dance, echoing the forgotten voices of the women who lived through these repertoires.

Weaving together past and present, memory and imagination, The Curious Bards question the way in which these ancient musics still carry powerful narratives, between light and shadow. A vibrant tribute, where tradition and creation come together to breathe new life into a living memory.

Cast (10 people on tour)

The Curious Bards
Pierre Gallon, virginal
Bruno Harlé, flutes
Louis Capeille, triple harp
Jean-Christophe Morel, cistrum
Sarah Van Oudenhove, viola da gamba
Quentin Viannais, bagpipes
Alix Boivert, violin

Ilektra Platiopoulou, mezzo-soprano
Sibéal Davitt, dancer

Éadaoin Fox, stage & video direction
Peggy Gilbert, assistant director
Samuel Sérandour, stage manager