* For past descriptions of Imbue see imdb <a href=”https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3452594/”>https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3452594/</a>x as shown here:
“On another planet similar to Earth, an optimistic doctor struggles to relay timely information of global significance. She falls prey to slander, treachery, greed, negligence, and ignorance. Others call her concept “too big an idea”, until finally they scramble aboard in the wake of pandemic tragedy.” —Anonymous (2017)
Previously described as an “autobiographical sci-fi documusical”* this projects now fits the description of an oratorio – an orchestrated choral composition telling a culturally important story without costumes, scenery, or dramatic action.
Consistent with the genre, the current focus has been on selection and refinement of the musical composition in preparation for orchestral and choral interpretation.
The oratorio provides a sturdy soap-box for the protagonist to stand upon to promote her vision.
The oratorio is also suited for the project’s embedded long-form epic of human freedom which is told from four perspectives throughout the first two acts.
The protagonist’s experiences are related to the four perspectives of freedom as wisps of song and images, lacking the dramatic action of an entertaining musical, play, movie or opera.
Coupling the oratorio format with an online libretto holds space to present a complex challenge; exposit the protagonist’s three-part definition of mercy: understanding, compassion and accountable action; and demonstate how 8 shapes of universal shared information may be poised to solve the complex challenge.
Combining the oratorio-online libretto with collaborative technology extends the project oratorio’s lofty themes of creative inclusivity to reach beyond personal identity to the realms of shared humanity and expression.
The subject and themes of the Imbue project echo the power and gravitas of the classical oratorio which aspires to deliver to its listeners a state of inspiration, even grace.
The expansive multimedia online oratorio, free from the time fetters of a live performance or documentary, can immerse the audience over a period of time. Intermissions for reflection and integration may enhance the project’s ability to imbue a sense of resolution by deliberation.
An online oratorio may dovetail with common and cutting edge technologies required by the Imbue project which explores the boundless canvass of human collective creativity.
The formation of an oratorio, not tethered to any stage, is flexible and is likely to integrate, possibly shift to, new platforms as new features are imagined.
Combining the oratorio genre with audience participation invites co-creation and a collaborative denoument. The third and final act of Imbue lifts off the page with undefined coordinates.
The oratorio’s explanation of ushin shapes in verse and illustrated examples enter the practical world with physical “gimmicks” such as ushin charms that people can download, assemble, laser print… to help define, process and fund their own deliberations.
The oratorio and its website will change as material is uploaded and edited into an evolving illustrated libretto that encourages deliberation about the project itself. Contributions by site visitors will inform the lyrical content of the embedded epic and also provide content for the oratorio’s final act.