Originally conceived as a track for the album “Charles Byrne Is Dreaming,” the music evolved beyond its initial scope, expanding from a three-minute song to a 90-minute opera. This opera is slated to debut at the Royal Opera House this week, a transformation that would have been unimaginable in the early 1990s.
The genesis of this opera traces back to a pivotal encounter in the curator’s past at the Science Museum in London. Amidst the eerie ambiance of dimly lit galleries filled with human specimens prepared by the esteemed anatomist John Hunter in the 18th century, the curator first encountered the towering skeleton of Charles Byrne. Byrne, a man of exceptional height who tragically passed away at a young age due to a pituitary tumor, became the focal point of contemplation and inspiration for the curator.
The curator’s fascination with Byrne’s physicality was soon overshadowed by the unsettling revelation of Hunter’s posthumous actions. Despite Byrne’s explicit wish for a sea burial, Hunter orchestrated the theft of his body, perpetuating a disturbing narrative of exploitation and violation.
Drawing parallels between Byrne’s fate and a funeral scene from John Blow’s masque, the curator envisioned a poignant tribute through the opera “Giant.” This ambitious project, despite the odds stacked against its creator, found realization through a serendipitous collaboration facilitated by Britten Pears Arts and the Jerwood Foundation.
Under the innovative direction of Sarah Fahie, the narrative of “Giant” was brought to life with a focus on poignant moments that encapsulated the essence of Byrne’s story. The sonic tapestry of the opera, meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of eerie introspection, was enriched by the collaborative efforts of talented performers and creatives.
Central to the opera’s success was the portrayal of Charles Byrne by the talented tenor Karim Sulayman, whose commanding presence and vocal artistry breathed life into the character. The addition of a spoken role for Hunter’s assistant and three female voices added layers of depth to the narrative, bridging past and present perspectives seamlessly.
As the premiere of “Giant” approaches, the curator reflects on the arduous journey of bringing this opera to fruition. The sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the debut mirrors the feeling of launching a rocket to the moon against all odds. Through this tribute, the curator hopes to offer solace and understanding to the spirits of Byrne and Hunter, immortalizing their stories in a profound and meaningful way.