What remains is the actual meaning of political speech as a form of address that always refers to a “we” or a “you,” constructing collective subjects that it then inspires with hope and fear.

Concrete references disappear behind rhythmic repetition and sound itself. Regardless of whether their outlook is conservative or radical, their political jargon soon falls apart and becomes music. In recognizable fragments taken from the daily press, they cater to different target groups, projecting visions of the past and the future. Five politicians hold speeches typical for their respective positions. Sampling various modes of political address found in public life today, she turns their clichés into material for a nontraditional opera. Zorka Wollny’s oratorio explores political speech-and particularly its sound-as a medium for collective experiences and affects. Voicers Oratorio for Five Speakers and a Listening Crowd 30min, 2019 Performers: Anna Clementi, Marek Kalbus, Ludwig Obst, Marc Weiser, Angela Wingerath Percussion: NU Unruh (Einstürzende Neubauten) Choir: 20 malicious men Studio and recording: Kalle Enkellman Casting: Thomas Herbst (Karlrecords) Film: Małgorzata Mazur Research assistance: Martyna Hadyńska Photos: Clara Wildberger, MathiasVoelzke Commissioned and produced by Steirischer Herbst Mirela Baciak, Sebastian Sprenger

Adriana prodeus