In Babylon aan de IJssel, the mystical world of Gilgamesh collides with the harsh reality of a refugee in Western Europe. In this new music theater work, Hawar Tawfiq, an Iraqi-Dutch composer, explores the clash of cultures through his evocative composition. The narrative, written by Marcel Roijaards, introduces us to an IND employee, portrayed by actress Judith Linssen. Tawfiq blends the worlds of Western classical music with the sounds of Kurdish music, creating a powerful and emotional soundscape.The music is performed by the Hexagon Ensemble, consisting of:Wout van den Berg, fluteBram Kreeftmeijer, oboeArno van Houtert, clarinetMarieke Stordiau, bassoonChristiaan Boers, hornFrank Peters, pianoAdditionally, a selection of Iranian musicians contribute with pre-recorded material.The production features:Music: Hawar TawfiqText and direction: Marcel RoijaardsActing: Judith LinssenDesign: Floriaan GanzevoortMusic direction: Monique KrüsTechnical support: Eelco VellemaThe result is an intense fusion of cultures, music, and powerful storytelling that challenges the boundaries between past and present.