New musical material premiered this weekend spotlights the real life story of Bridget Cleary in 19th century Tipperary
Folk singer-songwriter Maz O'Connor tells the story of the brutal murder of a woman
Folk singer-songwriter Maz O'Connor has written a new piece of music theatre that tells the story of the brutal murder of Bridget Cleary in 19th century Tipperary. The work gets its premiere at the Britten-Pears Arts Festival of New this weekend from 2pm.
Bridget Cleary lived in Tipperary in 19th century Ireland. She was killed by her husband Michael in 1895 who believed she had been abducted by fairies and been replaced by a changeling. Her treatment at the hands of her husband was later to revealed as brutal. Michael Cleary was found guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to 20 years penal servitude. He served 15 years in prison before emigrating to Canada.
Maz O'Connor's music tells the story of Cleary's grisly demise, told from the perspective of the local community and of Bridget herself through a series of folk-infused mid-tempo pop tracks. The work was developed amongst the small company at Snape Maltings Concert Hall in Snape when COVID guidelines allowed last year. The culmination of that work is to be premiered online this coming weekend.
Maz O'Connor has been described by the Guardian as 'one of folk’s brightest young talents' and has already released a handful of albums, most recently in 2019 with her release 'Chosen Daughter'.
What is the Festival of New?
Britten Pears Arts’ supports the creation of new and innovative works - the Festival of New is showcases some of the most exciting sounds currently being made in the UK. Some projects are complete, others are in development. All are created at the world-famous Snape Maltings during residencies that take place all year round (COIVD permitting). These experiences give artists the freedom to take risks, be ambitious and release their creative spirit.
Originally planned to take place in person at Snape Maltings in September 2020, the Festival of New line-up of thirteen artists and groups is instead being showcased online on Saturday 27 February from 2 – 6.30pm.
When guidelines allowed seven of the thirteen artists and groups were able to safely immerse themselves in creativity at Snape Maltings.
What's the line-up for Festival of New?
Find out more about the complete line up for Festival of New on the Snape Maltings website. Access to the live stream is free, but booking is required.