Theory of Flames

Groundbreaking film opera

In "Theory of Flames," director Neola is working on a science fiction film based on groundbreaking research that ended in disaster: a fire destroyed the laboratory. During her research, she stumbles upon shocking discoveries and becomes increasingly entangled in a web of alternative facts. It becomes increasingly difficult for her partner Marianne and her boyfriend Josh to reach her. What do you do when someone you love—and thought you knew—slowly becomes a stranger?

Multiple realities on one stage

In this world premiere, film and stage blend seamlessly, challenging the audience to consider what is real and what is not. Sopranos Mary Bevan and Aphrodite Patoulidou make their house debuts at the Dutch National Opera, alternating in the role of Neola; mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston sings her partner Marianne. Baritone Roderick Williams returns to the Dutch National Opera, this time in the role of cameraman Josh, and soprano Julia Bullock appears in the film footage. Conductor Elena Schwarz, a specialist in contemporary music, returns to Amsterdam for this world premiere, following her successful debut with Kaija Saariaho's Innocence in 2023.