Othman Louati explores the immersive oratorio

Othman Louati’s Solaris continues the composer’s exploration of the immersive oratorio, a genre that blends traditional vocal writing with modern visual technology. The work’s use of immersive video is not a decorative addition but functions as a structural ostinato (a continually repeated musical phrase or rhythm) that drives the narrative forward. Louati, a percussionist by training, brings a rhythmic precision to the lyrico-percussive tradition, echoing the works of Xenakis while maintaining a distinct lyrical core. The production’s integration of digital elements reflects a growing institutional trend toward total theatrical experiences designed to engage audiences beyond the traditional operatic frame. However, the work’s success rests on its musical coherence rather than its visual spectacle. By treating the video as a rhythmic parameter, Louati ensures that the technology serves the score, preventing the immersive elements from overwhelming the musical argument.