The enigma of Shostakovich's message will unfold before your eyes in this dramatic presentation of the composer's life and world.

Seventy-five years ago, under extreme political pressure, Shostakovich withdrew his Fourth Symphony and got to work on writing his now-legendary Fifth Symphony. The result was an appealing and triumphant score full of contradictions and hidden messages. Is it a tribute to the greatness of the Soviet virtues or a parody of its leadership? How could an artist create a work of such power and optimism under such harsh and restrictive conditions? 
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WORLD PREMIERE 
MARCH 2013

Yannick Nézet-Séguin 
Music Director & Conductor

Playwright & Stage Director: 
Didi Balle

March 1, 2013
Verizon Hall
Kimmel Center for the Arts
Philadelphia, PA

Commission: 
The Philadelphia Orchestra

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