What's On Past Events: 2023 / 2024

Join Soundstreams for this vibrant reinterpretation that straddles the boundaries between the ethereal and the gritty, the sacred and the avant-garde.

Reflecting on Handel’s Messiah through a contemporary lens makes it uniquely here and now. In the hands of visionary music director and sound designer Adam Scime, this year’s Electric Messiah gathers a powerhouse ensemble of five gifted vocalists and a five-person instrumental group. Their collaborative alchemy and improvisations breathe new life into Handel’s classic composition, infusing the piece with the essence of contemporary musical exploration. Adding to the anticipation, this year’s rendition includes the live premiere of O Death, O Grave by acclaimed Métis-French Canadian composer Ian Cusson to elevate the performance to new heights.

“Electric Messiah represents a vibrant intersection of tradition and innovation, of raw emotion and refined artistry,” says Scime.

Soundstreams Founding Artistic Director Lawrence Cherney adds: “People who aren’t believers are drawn to Handel’s Messiah, and why is that? Yes, it is gorgeous and unforgettable music. But it also speaks to universal human values that all of us relate to, regardless of our belief system: love, betrayal, sacrifice, joy, redemption. Our version may be different from conventional productions—it’s truly cross-genre—but it too deeply probes the human emotions that Handel touched on so magically.”

With stage direction by Chelsea Dab Hilke, the production stars: Midori Marsh, soprano; Rebecca Cuddy mezzo-soprano; Elizabeth Shepherd, vocals; Daniel Cabena, counter-tenor; and Korin Thomas-Smith, baritone. The instrumental ensemble includes: Amahl Arulanandam, electric cello; Wesley Shen, harpsichord; Luan Phung, electric/acoustic guitar; and Joel Visentin, electric organ. Their collective creativity and genius ensure an immersive and electrifying experience.

Never the same, always Electric Messiah! You can secure your tickets now for an unforgettable experience that blends the contemporary with the timeless.

ARTISTS
Chelsea Dab Hilke
Stage Director

Adam Scime
Music Director/ Sound Design

Midori Marsh
Soprano

Rebecca Cuddy
Mezzo-Soprano

Elizabeth Shepherd
Vocals

Daniel Cabena
Counter-Tenor

Korin Thomas- Smith
Baritone

Amahl Arulanandam
Electric Cello

Luan Phung
Guitar

Wesley Shen
Harpsichord

Joel Visentin
Keyboards