Exploring Cocteau’s The Human Voice – Film, Music & Performance: Sheffield Chamber Music Festival

Film, music and one woman on the line

Ahead of Tuesday evening’s live performance, this special afternoon event explores Jean Cocteau’s landmark monodrama The Human Voice — a work that has fascinated composers, directors and performers for nearly a century.

Through a panel discussion and curated film excerpts, music and film experts examine how Cocteau’s intimate portrait of heartbreak and isolation inspired Francis Poulenc’s operatic adaptation La Voix Humaine, and why the piece continues to resonate so powerfully today.

On screen: iconic interpretations

The event features excerpts from celebrated cinematic versions of The Human Voice, created by some of the world’s most influential filmmakers, including:

• Ingmar Bergman

• Pedro Almodóvar

And starring unforgettable screen performances by:

• Tilda Swinton

• Sophia Loren

Each interpretation offers a distinct emotional and visual language, revealing the flexibility and enduring relevance of Cocteau’s text across eras and art forms.

Expert insight and discussion

Soprano Claire Booth joins the panel to discuss the impact of these cinematic versions on musical performance, interpretation, and staging — drawing connections between film, opera and live performance.

Why attend

• A rare deep dive into one of the 20th century’s most influential dramatic works

• Film excerpts from legendary directors and actors

• Insightful discussion bridging cinema, opera and performance

• Ideal for lovers of film, classical music, opera and theatre

🎟 Tickets & full details:
https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/exploring-cocteaus-the-human-voice