The Fractured Crown

Abstract

A coronation. A crown, an oath, oils and regalia: bestowed upon a monarch, enthroned through hallowed hands. But what if the very essence of that monarch is heresy to those hands?

"The Fractured Crown" by Tomas Parrish-Chynoweth offers a musical ‘what if’ inspired by Christopher Marlowe’s play "The Troublesome Reign and Lamentable Death of Edward the Second, Kind of England." The play follows Edward II (1284–1327) and his lover Piers Gaveston to their tragic deaths and – whether or not Marlowe’s account is factual – the plight of a gay king amidst hatred and condemnation, which became inspiration for the composition.

Further inspiration came in the form of a message from a stranger – someone struggling to reconcile themself to their queerness and the implications of coming out to their family. Parrish-Chynoweth wanted to write a piece that honoured those who came before them, recognising their queer ancestors' beauty, love and heroism, so that young people might know we aren’t broken, we’re just made to feel that way. The Fractured Crown is a love letter to Edward II and to all those made to feel broken.’