HEIÐA ÁRNADÓTTIR
MUSICIAN // VOCALIST
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." Simon Cummings - 5against4
About
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.
Length: 50 minutes
Language: Show performed in Icelandic, accompanied by a small booklet with English translations
Technical needs for the show:
1 head microphone
Quadrophonic PA system
2 projectors and 2 projector screens
AER box (or similar) + microphone + XLR cable
1 spot lights
2 moveable lights
(Strobe light)
(Fog machine)