University News Last updated 12 March
Passia is a new 45-minute cantata for women’s voices and trebles choir by alumna and composer Liz Dilnot Johnson, with words by five ancient and modern female writers.
The cantata was commissioned by Papagena, an a capella vocal group, involving alumni Suzzie Vango, Imogen Russell and Liz, with the world premiere taking place on Monday 30 March at Great Malvern Priory.
Performing alongside Papagena will be the National Children’s Choir of Great Britain.
Passia retells the Passion story through the eyes of five women at the foot of the cross. The women arrive hopeful, only to be devastated by what plays out in front of them. They share their own relationships with the man they love, and the music moves from joy and love to grief.
Passia incorporates a range of influences, from European mourning songs and Palestinian traditional music to ancient Byzantine vocals woven through new music by Liz that explores the sonority, beauty and depth of women’s voices.
This new work will appeal to people of all faiths or none, focusing on the experiences of diverse women witnessing the violent death of someone they love.
Passia brings women’s voices and experiences into the spotlight, allowing their voices to be heard.
The first performances of Passia will take place during Holy Week 2026:
- Monday 30 March, 3pm, Great Malvern Priory (world premiere), Book here.
- Tuesday 31 March, 7.30pm, Church of St Mary Magdalene, Oxford, Book here.
- Thursday 2 April, 1pm, Christchurch Priory, Dorset, Book here.
You can support the project by making a donation here, to cover the costs of the composer, performers and other artistic costs. The funding will also be used to support more performances of Passia around the UK and beyond in 2027.