The Video & Text - Peter Morse

The Flower Tango was inspired by J.K. Huysmans' classic `decadent' text `À Rebours' (1884). The libretto concerns itself with a variety of exotic and unusual plants that are described in terms of their similarity to diseases of the body, effectively inverting the standard appreciation of flowers as `beautiful' objects.

Taking this lead the visual materials employ computer animations of flower-like forms that unfold during the course of the song - themselves a parody of the `natural.' In this way a kind of commentary on the alien-ness of nature is explored, set in counterpoint with the fictive realism of computer-generated imagery. Both become forms of the monstrous.

The Music - Glenn Rogers

This piece is based on two distinct ideas: first is the tango rhythm, which is based on a cyclic chord progression with a bel canto melody over the top; the second is a five-part motet that alternates with the tango and is in the style of Carlo Gesulaldo (1560-1613). The tango acts as a refrain with little development, unlike the motet which becomes more removed from tonality with each entry. The barely tonal sections, chromaticism and false harmonic relations of the motet comment on the bizarre and singular genius of Gesualdo as well as a distorted perception of nature and the `natural.'

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Glenn Rogers, Composer/Musician:
Glenn Rogers is a highly regarded Western Australian musician and composer. He has written a number of works for ensemble and operatic performance as well as performing as a guitarist with the W.A. Symphony Orchestra and his own Latin-fusion band `Del Fuego.' He has released several audio CDs of his own compositions and ensemble work with a variety of performers.

Alistair Dudfield, Audio Producer:
Alistair Dudfield is an accomplished musician, composer and audio producer.

Andrew Foote, Baritone:
Western Australian-based baritone Andrew Foote is a regular guest artist with all the major musical and theatrical companies in WA, as well as a frequent broadcaster for ABC Fine Music and freelance principal artist for Opera Australia and West Australian Opera throughout Australia.

Penelope Reynolds, Soprano:
Penelope Reynolds is a graduate of the Western Australian Conservatorium of Music and most recently the University of New Mexico, where she attained a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance. She has performed widely overseas and is currently a member of the West Australian Opera Company for whom she performs regularly.

Samantha Podeú, Soprano:
Samantha Podeú is a free-lance soprano. She performs regularly with the Custard Divas, her own ensemble and in a solo capacity. She writes original material and is interested in fusing operatic singing techniques with contemporary dance music.