A Joke Before the Gallows

Polish composer Chopin is much celebrated for his iconic writing for piano. His bold, dramatic scherzos are in opposition to their translation: ‘scherzo’ means joke!

Join internationally acclaimed concert pianist Adam Sherkin performing Chopin’s four masterpiece scherzi alongside vivid monologues written by David James Brock in this darkly funny, thought-provoking performance directed by Tom Diamond. The premiere is a mixed media event with a live performance followed by a film screening and creative discussion.

Programme

7:30 – 10:00 PM

Host | Tom Allen

Scherzo No. 3 in C-sharp minor, Op. 39 (1838) by Frédéric Chopin

Four Preludes: “Before the Gallows,” Op. 38 (2022) by Adam Sherkin

1. The Killer and the Witch
2. Traded Lullaby
3. True Tall Tale
4. The Blood that Goes for Health

Adam Sherkin | Piano

Premiere film screening | A Joke Before the Gallows, dir. by Tom Diamond (2022)

Creative Discussion | Tom Allen – Host

Please note that the venue, 918 Bathurst is not currently a fully accessible venue. There are three steps up to the front door and a short set of stairs into the theatre. The washrooms are also only accessible by stairs. We apologize to those who this impacts.