Theatre Royal,Glasgow
Novelist Louise Welsh and composer Stuart MacRae’s adaptation of a Faustian myth by Robert Louis Stevenson is as economical as it is engagingComposer Stuart MacRae and librettist Louise Welsh’s third and so far largest operatic collaboration – a co-production by Scottish Opera and and Music Theatre Wales – is an adaptation of a sinister tale by Robert Louis Stevenson. The original myth, entitled The Bottle Imp, or is set in Hawaii during the 19th century,although Welsh has moved the action to the here and now. The scenario contains obvious resonances of the Faust legend. Given how successful that has been as an operatic source, it is surprising that no one has apparently thought of setting Stevenson’s version to music before.
On their travels, and two scruffy young backpackers come across a mansion. Its elderly occupant explains how he has acquired his extraordinary wealth: from a bottle containing an imp that grants every wish. Now he wishes to dispose of it.
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Source: theguardian.com