A kind man
"Jonathan’s opera is very beautiful and works wonderfully in a way that I could never have envisioned."
Susan Hill: June 2022
A Kind Man: An Opera of Resilience, Love, and Miraculous Redemption
In the heart of tragedy, amidst the shadow of impending loss, emerges the tale of Tommy, a dying man whose unexpected miraculous recovery brings hope and healing to those around him. Set against the backdrop of a humble cottage and a serene churchyard, this opera unfolds the poignant journey of Eve, a devoted wife grappling with grief and astonishment, and Tommy, whose newfound gift of healing others becomes both a blessing and a burden.
From the intimate spats of sisterly conflict to the profound moments of spiritual reflection, “A Kind Man” delves deep into the complexities of human relationships. The narrative weaves through the skepticism of a doctor, the desperation of a mother, and the unwavering belief of a wife, culminating in a powerful exploration of faith, love, and the mysteries of life and death.
As Tommy’s life reaches its inevitable end, the opera leaves us with a moving testament to the enduring power of kindness and the indomitable spirit of those who love selflessly. “A Kind Man” is a touching opera that resonates with the beauty of human resilience and the inexplicable miracles that sometimes touch our lives.
The Music
“Tommy Carr, A kind man; leaving flowers in my jug, as always, me knowing what he felt not a word needing to be said.”
SUSAN HILL: THE LITERARY
MAESTRO BEHIND "A KIND
MAN"
Susan Hill, the acclaimed English author renowned for her evocative storytelling, crafted “A Kind Man,” a poignant novel exploring the complexities of human relationships and the mysteries of life. The story follows Tommy Carr, who miraculously recovers from terminal cancer and gains the mysterious ability to heal others. Through the eyes of his wife, Eve, Hill delves into themes of love, faith, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of a small rural community. Her lyrical prose and deep empathy for her characters paint a vivid picture of their struggles and triumphs.
The adaptation of “A Kind Man” into an opera brings Hill’s compelling narrative to life in a new and powerful medium. The opera captures the emotional depth and spiritual resonance of Tommy’s journey, blending music and drama to convey the story’s profound message. Through this adaptation, Hill’s work reaches new audiences, continuing to inspire and move with its timeless exploration of hope, humanity, and the enduring impact of kindness.
2022:A KIND MAN CAME TO THE
STAGE
June 2022: Hoxton Hall, London – four fully staged performances.
December 2022 : The Reform Club, Lomdon, Gala concert performance with narration by Miranda Richardson
These two venues showcased the alternative orchestration for A Kind Man. The theatrical at Hoxton Hall used the full score comprising flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, trumpet. harp, 2 violins, 2 violas, 2 cellos, and a double bass. The Reform Club Gala used the sextet version for Piano, Harp, Clarinet, Viola, Flute and Trumpet.
WORK WITH JONATHAN
As a younger man, I read most of Hill’s fiction and snapped up A Kind Man when it was published in 2011. There was nothing spare in this concise and moving tale of a young and loving couple, assailed by a double tragedy.
The novel’s plot revolves in part around the threat of the cancer that Tommy has to endure. Like most people, I have had my share of unextraordinary sadness; my wife Anya died in 2009 after living with cancer for eight years.
When I read A Kind Man it occurred to me that the novel would make a great play or opera. After writing two scenes of music and dialogue, I thought that I was onto something; so I needed to ask Susan Hill’s permission to write an opera based on her work: to my great pleasure she agreed:
“I am always delighted to have any collaboration etc with composers so I am delighted you think the novel of interest … go ahead … I will be glad to hear what you make of it. I am rather fond of that novel!”
I do not view Hill’s story as a tale of exceptional people. I think of it as an exceptional depiction of the unsurprising presence of love, selflessness and hope in an ‘ordinary’ life. I hope to have captured something of this everyday miracle in my opera A Kind Man.
The Kind Man was a wonderful experience, not just for the audience as a new piece of work, but also for the cast and orchestra – bringing a new piece of work to life, leaving everyone to take away their own personal emotions of how the work touched them. ‘The Kind Man’ is offered to you under licence, whether you are a venue operator, conductor, opera society, music festival or investor. Whatever your interest or you have any questions, please do contact us.
LICENSE A KIND MAN
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A Kind Man: An Opera of Resilience, Love, and Miraculous Redemption. Contact us to discuss licensing A Kind Man.
