Music makes time-travellers of us all.

It connects us to the past, to the land, to ancestors and to forgotten songs. Long before we ever knew we were listening, our mothers, fathers, carers comforted us through song. In the beginning, music is family.

South African cellist and composer Abel Selaocoe is a sensation. His work has a way of cutting through what we think and tapping directly into how we feel. Backed by the beat of African percussion, in this brand-new show Abel is joined by Manchester Collective to present a musical journey that spans continents and generations, past and future.

Featuring stories and original compositions by Abel, alongside masterpieces by Vivaldi, Stravinsky and Mica Levi, The Oracle is ultimately a show about connection. It’s music at its most joyful and life-affirming.

Abel Selaocoe's new work has been commissioned by Manchester Collective in partnership with the Royal Philharmonic Society

Tour Dates

31 March – Birkenhead – Future Yard
1 April – Saffron Walden – Saffron Hall
7 April – Nottingham – Lakeside Arts
8 April – Leeds – Howard Assembly Room
15 April – Manchester – Bridgewater Hall
20 April – York – Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall
22 April – Bristol – St George’s Bristol
24 April – London – Southbank Centre
1 May – Online – Free Broadcast

Check times and book tickets via the venue links

Setlist

Antonio Vivaldi Concerto for Strings in G Minor
Picforth In Nomine
Oliver Leith Honey Siren: II. (Full Like Drips)
Abel Selaocoe Camagu / Tshepo / Kea Mo Rata – World Premieres
Igor Stravinsky Concerto in D for Strings
Mica Levi Love
Trad. (Denmark) Brudestykke (Bridal Piece)

Approximate run time: 120 minutes

Line-up

String ensemble, electric bass, African percussion, solo cello

Programme Notes →

“Entirely unexpected – a truly wonderful and joyous experience”

AUDIENCE MEMBER

“A total reset for the mind and heart” ★★★★★

THE TIMES

“One of the most amazing performances I've ever seen”

AUDIENCE MEMBER