Extraordinary Life

This Wild Geese Productions work focuses on the life and music of early 20th century English composer George Butterworth. It was premiered as a fully staged production on the centenary of his death in WWI in August of 2016. This semi-staged version has been created to give greater focus to his life story and his music.

“When I away from hence is past I shall not find a bride, And you shall be the first and last I ever lay beside.” A. E. Housman

George was a musical master in the making to many, a brave leader to others, a cypher to some and a tender friend to a few. Throughout his life, George battled between his inner desires and his outward projection of seamlessly fitting into Edwardian morality, which was not an easy feat for the time. This production makes use of his Shropshire Lad song cycle, which is set to Housman’s charged poetry, as well as other selections of Butterworth’s iconic music alongside memories and comments by those that knew him. The dramatisation seeks to explore the demons that pursued George and the elegiac love for fellow man that consumed him, giving context to why he chose to do what he chose to do with the time that he had.

Richard Court: Baritone Mark Packwood: Pianist Director/Concept: Duncan Macfarland Sound Design: WGP & Will Edelsten Projection Design: WGP & Charlie Thorne Voice Artists: Louise Ashcroft, Julie Bowles, Martyn Bullock, Sara Clethero, Will Edelsten, Teo Ghil, Rich Gittins, Rufus Graham, Martha Henneman, Cairn Macfarland, Sally Marie, Charlotte Medcalf, Mark Packwood, Lucy Ridley, Sandy Strallon.

With many thanks for the support offered by Central School of Ballet, Mas Plantat, Royal Opera House Covent Garden, English Folk Dance & Song Society and English Touring Opera and all the generous people who have offered their time, resources and support in the creation of this production. This production is available for touring.

For any enquiries please contact: Duncan Macfarland: fireflyops@gmail.com