"Herakles" by composer Tim Benjamin will receive its first performance in Todmorden Town Hall at the end of April 2017.
Commissioned by Todmorden Choral Society, this contemporary take on the oratorio introduces us to the legendary and mythical character Herakles 9or Hercules) in his childhood, before he becomes the famous hero of the twelve labours.
Destined to be a ruler of mankind, Zeus sends his son Herakles with Hermes, as a test, to the distant mountain eyrie of the Titans Lady Royalty and Lady Tyranny, to discover which he will choose as the model for his own future rule. The narrative is based on an ancient Greek tale of the young Herakles' choice between Virtue and Vice. Composer Tim Benjamin's version adds a twenty-first century twist, framing the choice as between two extremes which the young everyman Herakles rejects, to assert instead a mortal right to free self-determination.
The story is narrated by Time herself, and Herakles is portrayed by a treble. They are joined by a cast of four outstanding soloists for the roles of Zeus, the mercurial Hermes, and the two terrifying Titans, along with a large orchestra and Todmorden Choral Society, in a thrilling musical drama on a grand scale.
Tickets will be available from Todmorden Tourist Office and are expected to cost around £10.