Ten Plagues – A Song Cycle

Marc almond ten plagues album cover artwork

Ten Plagues – A Song Cycle is a theatrical song cycle with music by Conor Mitchell and lyrics by Mark Ravenhill. The work is based on the Great Plague of London in 1665 and explores themes of illness, isolation, and survival.

Background

The song cycle was commissioned by the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh and premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2011. It was performed by Marc Almond, a renowned singer and performer known for his work with the band Soft Cell.

Structure

Ten Plagues – A Song Cycle is composed of ten songs, each representing a different aspect of the plague and its impact on society. The songs are performed in sequence, creating a narrative that follows the experiences of a single protagonist as he navigates the horrors of the epidemic.

Themes

The work delves into various themes, including:

• **Illness and Mortality**: The inevitability of death and the fear of contagion are central to the narrative.
• **Isolation**: The protagonist's journey highlights the loneliness and separation caused by the plague.
• **Survival**: The struggle to endure and find hope amidst widespread despair is a recurring motif.

Performances

After its premiere at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Ten Plagues – A Song Cycle received critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of historical events and its contemporary relevance. The production has since been performed in various venues, often featuring different artists and interpretations.

Reception

Critics have praised the song cycle for its emotional depth and powerful storytelling. The collaboration between Conor Mitchell and Mark Ravenhill has been noted for its effective blend of music and narrative, creating a compelling and thought-provoking piece of theatre.

See Also

• Great Plague of London
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe
• Marc Almond
• Traverse Theatre
• Soft Cell