Premiered by Ensemble 20+ at DePaul University School of Music (11/04/2024).

Content warning: this piece contains depictions of gun violence and death. 

Ensemble 20:
Conductor: Michael Lewanski
Flute: Elena Rubin
Clarinet: Rachel Beil
Horn: Eli Hoffmann
Trombone: Ryan Saladin
Piano: Amarin Wexler
Percussion: Lydea King & Milo Paperman
Violin: Joanne Lin
Viola: David Phetmanysay
Cello: Julianna Bray
Bass: Walker Dean

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Description:

Silent Reckoning was conceived as a multimedia experience, blending music and live theatrical components. In collaboration with incredible students at The Theatre School at DePaul, we sought to evoke the atmosphere of a silent film brought to life on stage. Through muted, exaggerated gestural movement and expressive acting, the performers tell the story of a turbulent and violent night within a family-owned silent movie theater.

While composing the music, I constructed the narrative alongside, ensuring every component—from the lighting and intertitle projections to the onstage action—was meticulously crafted to enhance the storytelling. The narrative unfolds without spoken dialogue, relying instead on the powerful synergy between music, movement, and visual elements.

Choreographers:
Ryen Jones
Katherine Shuert

Actors:
Gracie Everett
Donio Hinsley
Andalyn Honselaar
Kaylah Janssen
Gabriela Santiago

Lighting Design & Operation:
Nathan Lesperance

Projection Design:
Justin Torzala

Projection Operation:
Sam Kudra