Story perspectives

Dutch Composer Premieres Opera Exploring Time Travel and Obsession

3/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Michel van der Aa, the Dutch composer, premieres Theory of Flames at the Dutch National Opera on Friday.
The production centers on Neola, who blends a fictional time-travel film with real-life events, fueling obsession and downfall.
The opera explores conspiracy theories without accusation, reflecting van der Aa's humanistic approach.
Van der Aa is known for ethics-focused works and previously created From Dust, a virtual-reality opera about societal issues.

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Story summary

Michel van der Aa, the Dutch composer, premieres Theory of Flames at the Dutch National Opera on Friday.
The production centers on Neola, who blends a fictional time-travel film with real-life events, fueling obsession and downfall.
The opera explores conspiracy theories without accusation, reflecting van der Aa's humanistic approach.
Van der Aa is known for ethics-focused works and previously created From Dust, a virtual-reality opera about societal issues.