Toronto-based Juno Award-winning composer and bandleader Andrew Downing will arrive on Denman Island Nov. 5 with his unique chamber ensemble for a presentation of the groundbreaking 1919 German silent film The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari.
The film is a macabre, surreal foray into the mind of a somnambulist and his master through the little German town of Holstenwall on the day of their town fair. The theatrical sets, fantastical costumes and riveting plot take you on a trip through time and space that you won’t soon forget.
The sometimes-haunting, comical and surprising music pairs with the film seamlessly, and the spontaneous nature of the ensemble’s sound will let you experience the film in a new and exciting way. The ensemble features some of Canada’s top jazz and classical musicians in a chamber ensemble reminiscent of Stravinsky’s Soldier’s Tale, and the music takes influence from classical music, Balkan music, jazz and folk music to weave its own tale alongside the remarkable film.
The ensemble includes Downing on double bass, Aleksander Gajic on violin, David Occhipinti on guitar, Kevin Turcotte on trumpet, William Carn on trombone and Peter Lutek on bassoon.
This amazing performance will take place in the Denman Community Hall on Nov. 5 at 8 p.m. Doors open at 7:30 and admission is $10. You can watch a film clip at www.andrewdowning.com.
Those coming from town can take the 7 p.m. ferry from Buckley Bay and return on the 9:40 p.m. or 10:40 p.m. ferry.