A Last Supper

A grotesque musical feast inspired by the decadent universe of Marco Ferreri's La Grande Bouffe

Four characters – a chef, an opera singer, a pop musician, and a performance artist – come together for a decadent theatrical banquet. Only a select few spectators are allowed to take a seat at the table, while the vast majority are forced to watch from a distance. The characters waltz between self-glorification and self-destruction, gradually blurring the boundaries between pleasure and discomfort. Historical grandeur slowly withers into a decaying feast.

A Last Supper draws inspiration from the decadent, grotesque worlds of La Grande Bouffe (Marco Ferreri) and The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (Luis Buñuel), scrutinising concepts such as excess and privilege in the context of contemporary society. What lies beneath our insatiable hunger for more? Are we even capable of being satisfied? Who gains access to exclusivity, and who is left – quite literally – on the sidelines, watching?

A Last Supper examines themes of overconsumption and existential emptiness through the lens of a grandiose musical feast. The performance unfolds as a baroque opera in multiple courses, seasoned with electronic beats. Jonathan Bonny, together with B’Rock Ensemble, classical vocalists, and pop artists, crafts a unique fusion of early music and contemporary soundscapes.

Credits

Concept and Direction: Aïda Gabriëls
Dramaturgy: Tessa Vannieuwenhuyze
Libretto: Dominique De Groen
Compositions and musical arrangements from existing repertoire: Jonathan Bonny
Performance: Raphaële Green, Romain Dayez, Linde Carrijn, Casper Clausen, Elfa Rún Kristinsdóttir (violin), Jacek Kurzydło (violin & viola), Benny Aghassi (bassoon), Asako Ueda (lute & guitar) & Guy Penson (harpsichord)
Scenography: :mentalKLINIK
Lighting design: Anne Van Es
Choreographic advice: Matteo Sedda
Costumes: Maarten Van Mulken