Theory of Flames follows film director Neola Balan, who is working on a new science fiction film. Its script is based on pioneering scientific research that ended in a catastrophe: a fire destroyed the laboratory and the technology that was developed there. As Neola continues her investigations for her film, she makes shocking discoveries that increasingly entangle her in a web of alternative facts. Neola’s partner Marianne and her friend and colleague Josh find it increasingly difficult to get through to her. What do you do when someone you love — and thought you knew — becomes a stranger to you? Multiple realities share one stage Michel van der Aa has garnered international acclaim for work that is inspired by the frictions between innovative technology and the human condition. In Theory of Flames, he builds on the success of his previous film opera Upload, which premiered at Dutch National Opera in 2021 and won the International Opera Award 2022 in the category ‘best digital opera’. In this production, screen and stage images switch seamlessly, challenging the viewer to reflect on what is real and what is not. Soprano Mary Bevan and mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston make their house debuts in the roles of the ambitious filmmaker Neola and her partner Marianne. Baritone Roderick Williams returns to Dutch National Opera singing the role of cameraman Josh, and soprano Julia Bullock features in the film footage. Conductor Elena Schwarz, a specialist in contemporary music, returns to Amsterdam for this world premiere after her successful house debut with Kaija Saariaho’s Innocence in 2023. Photo: Hugo Thomassen Fusion of film and opera Disinformation and conspiracy theories: in the media, the line between fact and fiction is becoming increasingly blurred. Conflicting perspectives lead not just to polarisation in society but also create tension in the personal sphere – between friends, family and lovers. In his new ‘film opera’, the celebrated Dutch composer and director Michel van der Aa explores these topical issues. World premiere Film opera in five scenes Sung in English Libretto Michel van der Aa Musical direction Elena Schwarz Stage and film direction Michel van der Aa Set and lighting design Theun Mosk Dramaturgy Madelon Kooijman, Niels Nuijten Neola Mary Bevan Marianne Helen Charlston Josh Roderick Williams Scientist (on film) Julia Bullock Residentie Orkest Chorus of Dutch National Opera (on film) Chorus master Edward Ananian-Cooper Composition commission and co-production of Dutch National Opera, doubleA Foundation (Amsterdam), The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet and the Bregenz Festival Production partner Premiere 6/3/2026 Subsequent performances: 8*, 12, 14, 17, 22* March 2026 | Curtain-up: 20:00 / *14:00 | Ticket sales start on: 28 August 2025 | Prices: see page 125 | Location: Main Stage, Dutch National Opera & Ballet “A masterly weaving of music, film and motioncapture technology” The New York Times on Van der Aa’s Upload The Residentie Orkest is one of the major acclaimed symphony orchestras in the Netherlands. Known for its innovative approach, the orchestra performs not only in its home venue, Amare in The Hague, but also on prominent stages both nationally and internationally. At Dutch National Opera, the Residentie Orkest has previously accompanied new operas such as Innocence in 2023 and We Are The Lucky Ones in 2025. 47
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