Love, Icebox

The performance explores one of the twentieth century's most remarkable artistic and personal partnerships. Based on a selection of intimate letters written by John Cage to Merce Cunningham during the early years of their forty-year relationship, the work offers a rare glimpse into the emotional world that shaped two of the most influential creative figures of modern times.

Written for Alice Sara Ott, Bryce Dessner's evocative score unfolds alongside readings by Isabelle Huppert, creating a dialogue between music and text. Dessner's music is interwoven with works by John Cage and Erik Satie, whose artistic legacy profoundly influenced Cage's own musical language. With dramaturgy by Silvia Costa, lighting design by Tom Visser and live electronics by Benjamin Lanz, Love, Icebox is conceived as an immersive theatrical experience.






Produced by the Barbican.

Part of Artist in Residence: Alice Sara Ott.

Barbican Classical Music Programme receives major support from Marcus Margulies and additional support In Memory of John Murray.





Programme







Creative team