An opportunity to see a performance inside the Old American Can Factory
— a century-old, 130,000-square-foot manufacturing and arts complex
by the Gowanus Canal, is being offered by XO Projects this month.
From May 24–27, XO Projects presents the chamber opera “Rural
Electrification” in the complex’s “Sanctum.” Elizabeth
Brown’s composition for recorded sound, voice and Theremin (Leon
Theremin’s analog electronic instrument, whose sound is rampant in
old Vincent Price flicks) will be performed by Brown and Stephanie Skaff,
against Lothar Osterburg’s video projection.
“Elizabeth’s clear visual ideas for the piece was what ultimately
inspired me to collaborate in what was at first started as a purely musical
piece,” Osterburg told GO Brooklyn. Brown’s opera explores the
effects of the advent of electricity on a young woman living in rural
America.
Married since 2004, Osterburg and Brown first partnered on a 12-minute
long video, “Watermusic,” in 2005.
“Her music has always inspired me, and my art has been inspirational
for her,” said Osterburg. “She is one of my biggest fans!”
“Rural Electrification” will be performed May 24–27
at 8 pm in The Sanctum of The Old American Can Factory (232 Third St.
at Third Avenue in Gowanus). Tickets are $15, $10 seniors and students
with ID. For reservations and information, e-mail xopnyc@gmail.com.
— Lisa J. Curtis
