Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Angel’s Tears – multimedia work project

Hiu Yi Joyce Lee, The University of Western Ontario

Abstract

“Angel’s Tears” is a multimedia work for an eight-player chamber ensemble, musique concrète, and video, divided into eight chapters that explore the stages of alcohol intoxication, each corresponding to the levels of blood alcohol content (BAC). Inspired by the cocktail "Angel's Tears," the piece evokes the imagery of angelic blood tears falling from the clouds, using sound and visuals to symbolize a journey from reality to hallucination. The work is framed within the concept of liminality, a psychological and anthropological state of transition, uncertainty, and change. As the piece unfolds, it reflects the false promise of salvation through intoxication, where the pursuit of bliss ultimately leads to an illusory state of loss and vulnerability. Through its interactive multimedia elements, “Angel’s Tears” explores the tension between fleeting ecstasy and the irrevocable sacrifice of body, mind, and soul.