The rectangular frame contains me (2022)

The rectangular frame contains me is a short opera film where description manifests reality. It is a reflection on the human tendency to name, categorise and frame objects, people and actions in order to create meaning from matter. Audio description is integrated as operatic sung material in this surreal and minimalist film.

The opera tells of a black void, where a human needs to constantly describe and name itself in order to exist. Like the first star on a clear night, or the big bang, its presence is discerned from the gravitational attraction of meaning rather than luminosity. It may be a haunting or a premonition, or the skin shed from a baroque jester. A voice emits from the body and sings a riddle.

The film was created as part of a R&D phase for the new opera performance 'Skunk without k is Sun' which will premiere in October 2023 at Take Me Somewhere Festival. Filmed at Tramway, Glasgow in September 2022.

Credits
Created and performed by Louise Ahl
With artistic collaborator Jo Hellier
Composed by Yas Clarke
Videography and editing by Natalie McGowan
Produced by Michael Kitchin
Audio description consultancy by Quiplash
Make-up and hair by MV Brown

Supported by Tramway, The Work Room, Dance Base, Jerwood Live Work Fund and Creative Scotland