J.S. Bach's Markus Passion, a lesser-known piece, was reconstructed by Malcolm Bruno and presented in a modern theatrical concert format. The performance featured the OBF Baroque Orchestra, four singers, and an actor/narrator, creating a narrative of Jesus' last days. The singers performed while interacting dramatically, maintaining a contemporary appearance. The concert showcased a fusion of music and theater, described as a "theatrical concert," providing a unique reinterpretation of Bach's Eastertime music despite its lesser complexity compared to his other passions.
Malcolm Bruno, a Welsh early-music specialist, reconstructed it in this century, and saw... a 'possibility of a dramatic production, hearkening back to the earliest of Lutheran traditions with the Biblical text spoken.'
Concert Theatre Works, artistically directed by Bill Barclay... created a production with orchestra - in this case, OBF Baroque Orchestra - four singers and an actor/narrator to tell the story of Jesus' last days on earth.
The four singers in the 20-part piece moved around the stage as different characters in the passion play. They sang their parts and subtly acted out events and emotions with gestures and movement as they sang.
What we got was a 'theatrical concert' with musicians and actors/singers and narrator getting equal time, more or less.
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