Popular electronic music duo Goldfrapp will make their theatrical debut this summer, penning the music for Carrie Cracknell’s forthcoming production of Medea at the National Theatre.
Comprising Will Gregory and Alison Goldfrapp, the critically acclaimed pair has released six albums since forming in 2000, earning both prestigious Mercury Prize and Grammy Award nominations in the process and receiving plaudits for their eclectic atmospheric work that has ranged from glam upbeat pop to haunting soundscapes.
While keen music fans may remember Goldfrapp’s music has been heard on the National Theatre stage before when hit song Happiness featured in Earthquakes In London, this collaboration will mark the first time the talented duo has written music specifically for a stage production.
The result will be played live by an on stage band in the Helen McCrory-led production that will play in the Olivier Theatre from 14 July (press night 21 July).
While audiences will have to wait until then to find out exactly what Goldfrapp’s work will offer, it will undoubtedly add to the intensity of Euripides tragedy. In a new version by Ben Power, McCrory will lead the cast in the title role as a wife who lives in exile with her sons for the sake of her husband Jason. But when Jason abandons his family for a new life, she exacts an appalling revenge that destroys everything she holds dear.
For those that are unable to catch the production during its run at the National Theatre, the production will take part in the venue’s hugely successful NT Live initiative and will be broadcast to cinemas across the world on 4 September.