Is this the end? is going ahead

The death of conductor Patrick Davin during this week’s rehearsals cast a pall on La Monnaie’s season opener, a new opera by Jean-Luc Fafchamps titled ‘Is This the End’.

Questions were raised to to whether tomorrow’s premiere should be cancelled.

Well, it’s theatre. You know the old maxim…

Here’s a statement from La Monnaie:

The tragic and unexpected death of conductor Patrick Davin has left a deep mark on our opera house and the entire international music scene. Our thoughts go first to his family and loved ones, also to the artists and staff at La Monnaie involved in the Is this the end?

Over the past few hours, long discussions have taken place between management and the production team. Respecting the will of the family and in agreement with all those directly concerned, it was unanimously decided to maintain the world premiere of this opera filmed and broadcast live on our website to which Patrick Davin devoted so much love. and energy. Such a tragedy is sure to affect the experience of artists and audiences. These performances will be dedicated to the conductor’s memory. They will take place on Saturday September 12 and Sunday September 13 at 8:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. respectively. Ouri Bronchti, who assisted Patrick Davin in this production, will take charge of the musical direction.