Ethereal Realms – all fiction is metaphor is a transdisciplinary performance based on Ursula K. Le Guin’s 1969 feminist science fiction novel, The Left Hand of Darkness. This exploration story is a tale of survival and learning to come together. Ethereal Realms – all fiction is metaphor embodies the reminiscence of a Baroque opera infused with a soundscape blending sounds of undefined time and space. Wander and lose yourself in a labyrinth of signs and sounds, mirrors and moments, while reflecting on the complexities of identity, connection, and belonging. Embark on a journey where Marie Delprat’s music and Ursula K. Le Guin’s deconstructed language create a post-human playground for contemporary reflections on the science fiction metaphor.
Le Guin asserts that all fiction is metaphorical. In our fiction, the lines of sex, becoming, belonging, and world-making are not simply this, that, or neither; they are all something not yet imagined by humanity.
Concept, music, performance Marie Delprat
Concept, direction Aïda Gabriëls
Concept, dramaturgy advice Katelyn King
Scenography :mentalKLINIK
Lights Elia Huber
Sound design Maxime Le Saux
Costumes Maarten van Mulken
Distortion, e-guitar (recording) David Koch
Stage management Yesid Fonseca
Production and diffusion Maxine Devaud / oh la la – perfoming arts production
Coproductions Dampfzentrale Bern, Gare du Nord Basel
Supports Kultur Stadt Bern, SWISSLOS/Kultur Kanton Bern, Fachausschuss Musik BS/BL, Pro Helvetia - Fondation suisse pour la culture, Ernst Göhner Stiftung, Fondation Nicati-de Luze, Burgergemeinde Bern, Schweizerische Interpretenstiftung SIS, UBS Culture Foundation
Special thanks to Lena Meyskens & Thomas Giger