The Fresno Philharmonic is teaming up with Chanticleer Shakespeare Company for the upcoming production of The Tempest.
The partnership will allow for a live orchestral performance for the extremely limited run of The Tempest in Fresno.
What we’re watching: The Tempest will open on April 24 and run through May 3 at the Warnors Theatre.
Driving the news: The music that will be performed by the Fresno Philharmonic was written and arranged by Daisy Coole and Tom Nettleship of TwoTwentyTwo, based out of London.
It is a blend of contemporary composition with cinematic sensibilities that underscore the play’s moments of magic, intrigue and reconciliation while deepening the immersive atmosphere of The Tempest.
What they’re saying: “Shakespeare’s verse already sings,” said Artistic Director Blake Ellis. “As a director, I’m thrilled to see the musicians of the Fresno Philharmonic and the brilliant compositions of TwoTwentyTwo bring that poetry to life on our stage in a way the Valley has never experienced before.”
Stephen Wilson, President & CEO of the Fresno Philharmonic, said the orchestra is excited to partner on the play.
“As Fresno’s professional symphony orchestra, we are highly aligned with Chanticleer’s mission of presenting professional classical theater in Fresno,” Wilson said. “Through this collaboration we hope to expand the reach of both of our organizations and strengthen the performing arts in Fresno.”
Music Director Rei Hotoda added, “The Fresno Philharmonic’s collaboration with Chanticleer Shakespeare Company sends a powerful signal that Fresno’s arts organizations can do so much more when they work together.”
Coole said the collaboration is a wonderful opportunity to bring the cinematic perspective to theater.
“Film scoring usually happens in a studio far from the audience, so being part of the magic of live theatre and writing music for live musicians from the Fresno Philharmonic brings a completely different energy to the composition process,” Coole said.