Akhnaten has long since been a crowd favorite owing to its authentic rendering of Egyptian life and its memorable tunes. It is also an epitome of Philip Glass’ inimitable style of ‘minimalist music.’ Glass’ score delves into original Egyptian religious hymns in its attempt to paint a stunningly accurate portrait of Ancient Egyptian beliefs and customs.

After a hugely successful presentation of Glass’ Satyagraha in New York City, co-founder of Improbable Theatre Phelim McDermott is returning to America as the director of this musical.

The Story

Following the death of his father Amenhotep the Third, Akhenaten rises to the Egyptian throne. The coronation is marked by jubilation and joy, depicted in the orchestra by emphatic chorus signing and juggling acts. After his ascension, the young pharaoh begins to talk of shifting the Egyptian civilization from a fundamentally polytheistic society to a monotheistic one. As with most attempts at theological revolutions, Akhenaten’s new ideas invite public outrage and disgust. The pharaoh is eventually overthrown by one of his own priests. It becomes quite clear that the orchestra does not restrict itself to a single discernable storyline. In fact, it is a collection of vignettes woven together into a meta-narrative in characteristic Philip Glass fashion.

Good For

Fans of Philip Glass | Lovers of Musicals | History Buffs

Critics Review

“Stage pictures are painted with balletic poise in this revival of Phelim McDermott’s inventive production." - The Guardian

“Philip Glass’s flight into Egypt is a slow, sensuous and glittering opera.” - Evening Standard