Ragnar Kjartansson: Bliss

November 19, 2011
A Performa 11 Commission

For Performa 11, artist Ragnar Kjartansson presents a 12-hour-long performance, entitled Bliss, that will repeat the delirious final aria of Mozart's 1786 opera The Marriage of Figaro. In the final act of this opera, the Count asks the Countess' forgiveness for his arrogant blunders, which she grants, inspiring the entire court to celebrate. Kjartansson's performance will replicate the lavishness of traditional opera with a full orchestra, elaborate scenery, and period costumes, and will feature renowned Icelandic tenor Kristján Jóhannsson and members of his master class, as well as the artist himself, continuously replaying the two-minute musical, visual, and narrative pinnacle of the opera, approaching a euphoric state for performers and listeners alike.

Supported by Luhring Augustine, and Performa Producers Circle members Jane Wesman & Don Savelson, The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, National Endowment for the Arts, and The Dedalus Foundation.