Theory of Flames

In this new film opera, Michel van der Aa explores current themes such as disinformation and conspiracy theories. Conflicting perspectives not only polarize society but also create tensions between friends and family. In "Theory of Flames," director Neola becomes entangled in a web of alternative facts, while her loved ones watch helplessly.
Theory of Flames
Groundbreaking film opera
In "Theory of Flames," director Neola is working on a science fiction film based on groundbreaking research that ended in disaster: a fire destroyed the laboratory. During her research, she stumbles upon shocking discoveries and becomes increasingly entangled in a web of alternative facts. It becomes increasingly difficult for her partner Marianne and her boyfriend Josh to reach her. What do you do when someone you love—and thought you knew—slowly becomes a stranger?
Multiple realities on one stage
In this world premiere, film and stage blend seamlessly, challenging the audience to consider what is real and what is not. Sopranos Mary Bevan and Aphrodite Patoulidou make their house debuts at the Dutch National Opera, alternating in the role of Neola; mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston sings her partner Marianne. Baritone Roderick Williams returns to the Dutch National Opera, this time in the role of cameraman Josh, and soprano Julia Bullock appears in the film footage. Conductor Elena Schwarz, a specialist in contemporary music, returns to Amsterdam for this world premiere, following her successful debut with Kaija Saariaho's Innocence in 2023.
Dates and times
| Date | Time |
|---|---|
| Thursday 12 March | Time: 20:00 - 21:30 |
| Saturday 14 March | Time: 20:00 - 21:30 |
| Sunday 22 March | Time: 14:00 - 15:30 |
Accessibility
General accessibility provisions and information
Present, available or allowed
- Service dog allowed
- Personal assistant
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Provisions for people with reduced mobility
Present, available or allowed
- Stairs with handrail
- Lift
- Passageways that are sufficiently wide
- Accessible restroom
- Mobile payment
Provisions for people who are deaf or hard of hearing
Present, available or allowed
- Hearing loop (t-coil or headphones)
Not present, not available or not allowed
- Guide lines
- Sign language interpretation provided
- Closed captioning
- Open captioning
- Hidden disability Sunflower-keycord recognised here
- Low stimulus hours
- Sensory experience
- Audio description
- Accessible information
- Material in Braille

















