Origins – of the universe, of life, of species, of humanity

As a freelance writer, there are some projects that really inspire. A year ago I was invited to co-write a libretto for a new oratorio, based on evolution – from the big bang to the ascent of man. Evolutionary Geneticist Professor Jenny Graves was offering me the project of a lifetime in helping her bring to fruition a two decade-long dream of hers to write the text for a choral oratorio. Genetics is Jenny’s life, poetry is mine, we are both choristers and from day one, we hit it off. I have never enjoyed a collaboration as much as co-writing Origins – of the Universe, of Life, of Species, of Humanity.

With music by Australian composer Nicholas Buc, the 100-strong Heidelberg Choral Society, full orchestra and four fabulous soloists, conductor Peter Bandy drew it all together in a superb world premiere at the Melbourne Recital on July 18.  And what a night it was – the performance was a complete sell-out and the standing ovation from a thousand people at the end is something I will never forget. Thank you Melbourne for coming out on a cold winter’s night to support Origins – a scientific, emotional, poignant, at times amusing and thoughtful journey. Hopefully this oratorio will be performed again and again – there’s nothing else in the choral repertoire to match it!!

L-R  Leigh, Jenny Graves, Nick Buc, Peter Bandy