19:00-19:50, Wednesday 16th September 2026

The Cockpit

 

Music: Matthew Thomason

Words: Elizabeth Ellis

 

Step into a hauntingly reimagined romantic world with Arlodhes a Shalott, a striking new composition by Matthew Thomason inspired by Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s The Lady of Shalott.

 

Set in a Cornish-language translation from Elizabeth Ellis of the original poem, this work offers a fresh cultural perspective on a timeless legend. Blending evocative textures with a deeply atmospheric narrative, Thomason’s music explores themes of isolation, longing, and the fragile boundary between reality and reflection.

 

Shimmering harmonies and moments of stillness give way to surging intensity, mirroring the Lady’s fateful journey. Both intimate and powerful, Arlodhes a Shalott invites audiences to experience a familiar story through a distinctive contemporary and linguistic lens.

 

 

Age range: All ages, but mostly adults.

Content advisories: Click here for a full list of content advisories for Tête à Tête: The Opera Festival 2026 shows.

 

In a festival of new work, please note that shows can often overrun.

 

Produced by Matthew Thomason

 

Venue: The Cockpit, Gateforth Street, London NW8 8EH.

 

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On the same day:

 

Music: Matthew Thomason Soprano: Elizabeth Freeborn Cello: Kath Buckler Piano: Matthew Thomason Libretto/Translation: Elizabeth Ellis Producer: Julien Boast

Music: Matthew Thomason

Soprano: Elizabeth Freeborn

Cello: Kath Buckler

Piano: Matthew Thomason

Libretto/Translation: Elizabeth Ellis

Producer: Julien Boast