The Testament of Ann Lee with Daniel Blumberg and Amanda Seyfried review – yelps, bells and bruised beauty

Hollywood actress Amanda Seyfried and Oscar-winning composer Daniel Blumberg debuted their avant-garde musical collaboration, "The Testament of Ann Lee," at Milton Court Concert Hall in London on February 21, 2024, to bring to life a disorienting and ecstatic score inspired by the Shaker movement. The performance marked a significant artistic departure for Seyfried, moving from mainstream cinema toward experimental live theater. This unique production utilized a blend of bells, yelps, and specialized instrumentation to explore the spiritual and historical legacy of Ann Lee, the founder of the Shakers, within an intimate and immersive setting. The set was described by critics as brief but profoundly absorbing, characterized by a "bruised beauty" that challenged traditional musical structures. Blumberg, known for his innovative approach to film scoring and experimental music, provided a backdrop of frantic energy and clanging percussion. Against this chaotic soundscape, Seyfried’s vocal performance served as a grounding force. Her voice, noted for its purity and clarity, acted as a melodic anchor that prevented the more abstract elements of the composition from becoming completely inaccessible to the audience. This collaboration highlights a growing trend of established film stars seeking creative fulfillment in niche, high-concept performing arts projects. Just days after appearing on the mainstream promotional circuit, Seyfried successfully pivoted to this demanding live role, demonstrating significant vocal range and emotional depth. The production at Milton Court succeeded in blending traditional folk influences with modern experimentalism, leaving the audience with a haunting impression of the complexities of faith and history.