During Klarafestival 2024, Claron McFadden will perform four projects that bridge genres and generations: she creates a music theatre performance in the form of a radio programme around the legendary vaudevillian Ada 'Bricktop' Smith, she curates a happening around Gavin Bryars' iconic composition Jesus' Blood Never Failed Me Yet, and finally, she delves into the oeuvre of David Lang. And she will also host a workshop for kids.
Chez Bricktop
Chez Bricktop: that was the name of the legendary nightclub in Paris run by the American dancer and singer Ada Smith. It was a haven for French artists as well as Afro-American musicians who had moved to France, fleeing from systemic racism. Claron McFadden and Claire Chevallier recreate the vibrant climate of the interwar period in Paris, when jazz came over from America and started a conversation with the French repertoire. Luigi De Angelis stages this journey through time in the form of a ‘live’ radio show.
Happening
In 1971, Gavin Bryars paid tribute to a homeless man in Jesus’ Blood Never Failed Me Yet. Now, Claron McFadden and Bryars himself initiate a collective ritual around this work. Together with musical friends, conservatory students and Les Choux de Bruxelles, a choir of people with experience of poverty, they take over Bozar for an evening. On the programme, a tailor-made version of Jesus' Blood, a new piece by Bryars and a live playlist of mini concerts, curated by the students.
David Lang’s World
Claron McFadden pays tribute to the music of David Lang. This American composer knows the classical tradition like the back of his hand, but is always searching for new forms. Inspiration can be found anywhere, from a family game (in little eye) to opera (in prisoner of the state) and the Song of Songs (in just). The result is always as mesmerising as it is generous. Along with two young singers, a clarinet player and percussionists from the Ensemble TaCTuS, McFadden explores Langs multifaceted oeuvre.
Symphonie émotionelle
In a musical workshop, Claron McFadden encourages children between 6 and 12 years old to explore their voices and express what they are feeling. Afterwards, they perform their song in a small show.
This workshop, in collaboration with Muntpunt, is free.
image © Sergei Shauchenka
