Mary Magdalene is one of the most enigmatic figures of the Passion narrative, close at hand and yet never quite in focus across the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Tansy Davies The Passion of Mary Magdalene

John Butt director
Anna Dennis Mary Magdalene
Marcus Farnsworth Jesus

Mary Magdalene is one of the most enigmatic figures of the Passion narrative, close at hand and yet never quite in focus across the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Her relationship to Jesus has long intrigued poets, believers, and theologians alike, and Tansy Davies joins their ranks in this new commission. Drawing on the musical forces of J.S. Bach’s John Passion, she assembles the texts, including poetry by Ruth Fainlight, and writes music for her deep exploration of the Passion story from Mary Magdalene’s perspective. Expect something intimate, numinous, and revelatory.

Co-commissioned by Edinburgh International Festival, Barbican Centre & Dunedin Consort

Tickets from £15.50

With thanks to