Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir
COMPOSER
MÖRSUGUR
poetic tale fyrir voice and audiovisuals
Winner of Gríman 2024, the Icelandic Performing Arts Award,
Singer of the Year
"Heiða’s rendition of this was remarkable: what emerged from her mouth was more than mere imitation, a complex form of vocalise – either sub- or super-expressive, depending on your perspective – continually tilting between dual impressions of bird and woman. Both musically and visually, Mörsugur was primarily about atmosphere and texture, with a strong emphasis on the natural world, though its earthy, folk intimacy took a surprising turn later on, entering a beat-laden stylised frenzy with strobes and swirling purple lights. It all made for a strange but unforgettable experience."
''Mörsugur'' is an award-winning solo opera that blends a stunning vocal performance with mesmerizing audiovisuals, taking audiences on a poetic journey through the enchanting folklore of Icelandic nature and the complexities of existence between light and darkness.
Mörsugur is an innovative opera for voice and audiovisuals, inspired by a poetic tale by Ragnheiður Erla Björnsdóttir. Set against the backdrop of Iceland's folkloric nature, the work employs fragmented storytelling that frequently diverts to explore the journeys of mythic heroines, serving as the foundation for the narrator's voice. The piece is co-created by Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir, Heiða Árnadóttir, and Ragnheiður Erla Björnsdóttir and delves into the nuances of existing between worlds—light and darkness, memory and the present. The performance is beautifully complemented by video art from Ásdís Birna Gylfadóttir.
Composed for Dark Music Days 2023, Mörsugur premiered in Norðurljós Hall at Harpa on January 25, 2023. The composer, lyricist, and performers received an artist grant to develop the piece, alongside funding from the Music Fund, which supported direction, costume design, and visual artistry for video production and promotional photography. Heiða Árnadóttir served as the resident artist for Dark Music Days for three years, and this performance marked her final contribution to the festival in that role.
The work features a nonlinear narrative that explores the contrasts inherent in the Icelandic landscape and its changing seasons. It navigates a wide range of emotions, showcasing diverse vocal styles—from pop to extended techniques. This fusion of Icelandic poetry, electronic and acoustic music, experimental sound, visual art, and theatrical elements creates a cohesive and powerful experience, rich in texture, atmosphere, and mood. The progression of the work hinges on transformations of emotion and contrasts.
The focus of Mörsugur lies in exploring experimental singing and body movement as narrative forms within the performing arts. This resulted in a creation process that engaged closely with Heiða, tailoring the work to leverage her strengths in interpretation and vocal expression. As the project neared completion, visual artist Ásdís Birna Gylfadóttir joined the team, contributing video elements that enhanced the stage design and collaborated on lighting. Dramaturg Kolbrún Anna Björnsdóttir also contributed to the lighting, while costume designer Heiða Eiríksdóttir crafted the costume, sewn by Katla Sigurðardóttir. This entire creative endeavor unfolded through close collaboration among the entire team. The lyrics were translated into English by Ragnheiður Erla, Árni Ísaksson, and Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir, with proofreading by Meg Matich.
"[...]Much more involving was Mörsugur, a piece of music theatre (described as a “poetic tale”) by Ásbjörg Jónsdóttir and Ragnheiður Erla Björnsdóttir, given a tour de force solo performance by singer Heiða Árnadóttir. This time a translation was provided, offering an insight into the work’s mix of intimacy and myth, tapping into the country’s legends. Progressing more according to shifting emotional currents than a linear narrative, the performance was a marvellous way for Heiða to conclude her 3-year residency at the festival. She moved between close-up reverie, bathed in and transfixed by light, later (interacting with large video screens) appearing to touch the clouds. In one startlingly powerful sequence, having played imaginary bells with her fingers, she seemingly began to transform into a raven. Heiða’s rendition of this was remarkable: what emerged from her mouth was more than mere imitation, a complex form of vocalise – either sub- or super-expressive, depending on your perspective – continually tilting between dual impressions of bird and woman. Both musically and visually, Mörsugur was primarily about atmosphere and texture, with a strong emphasis on the natural world, though its earthy, folk intimacy took a surprising turn later on, entering a beat-laden stylised frenzy with strobes and swirling purple lights. It all made for a strange but unforgettable experience."
-Simon Cummings, 5:4