Indus: The Sound of the Story

Watch Gestalt Arts present Indus on 8 December from 7-8pm.

Whether it’s on film or live, the visuals are only half the story, and the sound is vital for people who are blind or visually impaired. In this practical session, writer and director,  Ruth Mariner of Gestalt Arts, Foley Artist  Ruth Sullivan, Singer Bethan Langford, Actor Chloë Clarke and composer Laura Bowler present their ongoing work with opera in their production Indus and explore how Foley sound effects and audio-description can heighten the experience for everyone.

Although the production has been paused due to Covid-19 restrictions, Indus is an intimate new work and unique approach to integrated access using electronic music, Foley sound effects, audio-description and the operatic voice. The production explores the relationship between disability and environment through the unlikely story of whale evolution. When a land-mammal begins first to explore the water, she finds a place where her differences become strengths, embarking on a journey of self-discovery towards an extraordinary future.

Bethan performs in Indus

ABOUT THE MAKERS

Performer | Co-Creator — Bethan Langford
Bethan Langford is a Mezzo-Soprano. Bethan is a graduate of The Guildhall School, The National Opera Studio and most recently was an emerging artist at Scottish Opera. She has performed at The Wigmore Hall, The  Marinsky Theatre and English National Opera.

Composer | Sound Designer — Laura Bowler  Laura Bowler is a composer and sound designer. Her work has been performed by ensembles including  BBC Symphony Orchestra and Manchester Camerata as well as venues such as Home and Manchester Royal Exchange.

Writer | Director — Ruth Mariner
Ruth is a writer and director whose work explores theatre-making and participatory work within opera. She has written and directed for companies including The Royal Opera, The National Opera Studio and The Lawrence Batley Theatre.

Actor  — Chloë Clarke
Chloë is a Cardiff-based actor, theatre-maker and audio description consultant. She is the co-founder and co-director of Elbow Room Theatre.

Foley —  Ruth Sullivan
Ruth is the “go-to” Foley Artist for live theatre sound. She has worked on hundreds of films and TV dramas. She was the founder of Gravitas Dance Company and regularly performs, directs and choreographs with the Tower Theatre Company.

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