Elli Papakonstantinou: "Oedipus: Sex with Mum was Blinding"

Oedipus: Sex with Mum was Blinding is an innovative hybrid opera written and directed by Elli Papakonstantinou. The piece draws from cognitive science and the myth of Oedipus Rex. Originally designed for a cast of seven, this abbreviated version of the opera at CCRMA features a mix of live actors that are folded into an array of surreal cinematic environments. Through a series of scientific experiments, audience engagement plays an essential role in the execution of the piece. In a constant stream of visuals and live action, atonal electroacoustic compositions weave throughout the opera performed by Grammy-nominated cellist Julia Kent on stage.

Concept, libretto, and direction: Elli Papakonstantinou

Music composition: Tilemachos Moussas, Julia Kent

Video art and real time video: Stephanie Sherriff, Hassan Estakhrian, Simona Fitcal

Julia Kent, cello

Cast in Stanford: Elena Margaret Sword Stalnaker (Oedipus), Clement T. Bouden, Aleta Hayes, Elli Papakonstantinou

Cast in Greece: Anastasia Katsinavaki (Teiresias/chorus), Nassia Gofa (Jokasta/chorus)

Presented with the support of NEON ORGANISATION, GREECE; THE J. F. COSTOPOULOS FOUNDATION; Fulbright Greece; and Hellenic Republic Ministry of Culture and Sports.