On June 28, the world premiere recording of the opera The Folly with music by Fabrice Bollon and a libretto Clemens Bechtel will be released by NAXOS. The performance took place with Theater Freiburg on May 21, 2022.
Taking place about 500 years ago, the story centres around Erasmus of Rotterdam, reflecting his life. Both he and Martin Luther publicly condemned the corruption and abuses of the Catholic church. While advocating peace, Erasmus chose to stay neutral during the church's conflict with Luther. He feared the violent consequences that soon followed.
Using original texts from letters, pamphlets and folios, The Folly recounts the ancient conflict of balancing observation with active participation. In an age of polarized extremism that mirrors our own time, Erasmus demands vigilance, defence and reinvention.
Bollon bridges the styles of 16th-century compositions and madrigals with modern influences of jazz to create a unique musical experience.
