“A magical hour where films, lighting, and music weave a rich tapestry—a unique experience that goes way beyond merely watching very old movies” —SG Fringe
A live concert designed as a soundtrack to a montage of silent films by George Méliès (1861–1938), considered to be one of the inventors of cinematography. If imagination were to become manifest, it would not be surprising if it took on the form of Georges Méliès. Considered by the Lumière brothers as the “creator of cinematic spectacle,” the French illusionist and film director can best be described by any number of superlatives. He was an inventive pioneer, emblematic personality, and brilliant entertainer who, in just a few years, revealed the extent of his visionary genius: he was first in the world to make us dream, to send ships into the universe, the seas, to explore the continents—all through the magic of early cinema.
Right in the Eye (a reference to the famous image from Méliès’s iconic silent film A Trip to the Moon) is the musical brainchild of Jean-François Alcoléa, who has created a magical show where a multi-layered, evocative and intricate score complements and interprets the otherwise silent films. A trio of virtuoso musicians share the stage with the films—and are almost a show in themselves, as they conjure music from an extraordinary array of instruments: basics like piano, percussion, and guitar; fantastic oddities like the aquaphone (ocean harp), theremin, and melodica; and mundane objects like stemware, circular saws, and even plastic take-out lids. The mesmerizing score and panoply of unexpected sound expertly evokes the technical wizardry, hilarity, and stream of invention bequeathed to cinema by Méliès.
A completely unique and unforgettable live movie/concert, this is a show you don’t want to miss.
Produced by PASOA/Alcoléa & cie; created by Jean-François Alcoléa.