Event details

Infusing a classical oratorio with blues, gospel, jazz and soul, this musical and visual journey investigates human experiences of time and memory alongside powerful physical forces that shape the universe. Our exploration emphasizes the significance of the ritual of gathering for live performance in an increasingly screen-focused world.

Featuring the students of the LCA as the cast and crew, this production is the first non-professional performance of this important new work which premiered in 2022 in New York City to great critical acclaim.

Directed by visiting Iranian artist and director Nikoo Mamdoohi, with Latin to English translations by Greg Taubman, the professional team includes music direction by Emma Sway, music supervision by Solon Snider Sway, set design by Afsoon Pajoufar, lighting design by Kelley Shih, sound design by Kay Richardson, costume design by Keating Debelak, choreography by Sariel Golomb, and is stage managed by alum Milan Eldridge ’20. Junior Peyton McLaughlin serves as dramaturg.

This project is cosponsored by the Princeton Humanities Initiative.

Relaxed Performance

A Relaxed Performance will be offered on November 8 at 2 p.m.

Tickets

All performances are open to the public. Tickets required.

• $20 general
• $10 students (any institution)
• No additional fees

Buy tickets through McCarter Box Office (available October 6)

Directions

Get directions to Berlind Theatre, located at 91 University Place in Princeton, and find other venue information for McCarter Theatre Center.

Accessibility

Berlind Theatre is an accessible venue with wheelchair and companion seating available. An assistive listening system is available and headphones can be requested from ushers. The show on November 8 at 2 p.m. is a Relaxed Performance. Visit our Venues and Studios section for accessibility information at our various locations, including Berlind Theatre. Attendees in need of other access accommodations are invited to contact the Lewis Center at 609-258-5262 or email LewisCenter@princeton.edu at least one week in advance of the event date.

Relaxed Performance Information

November 8 at 2 p.m. will be a Relaxed Performance.

Relaxed Performances ease typical theater requirements and welcome audience members to be comfortable and to move or vocalize freely, without judgment or inhibition.

A couple of days before the performance, you will receive an email from McCarter box office reminding audiences of what they can expect when attending the Relaxed Performance.

What to Expect at a Relaxed Performance

What to expect when attending the relaxed performance of Oratorio for Living Things:

• House lights will remain on at a low level in the theater during the performance
• Details of the sound levels and information about any loud or startling sounds will be shared before the performance begins
• No startling or strobe lighting
• Freedom to talk, vocalize, and leave seats during the performance as needed
• Space available throughout the theater and lobby for standing and movement
• Necessary communication devices are permitted; prohibitions against phone use, photographing, or recording the performance remain

At the Event

• The theater lobby will open at 1:00 p.m. and the house/theater space will open at 1:30 p.m. and you are welcome to arrive early to locate your seats
• We invite you to bring noise-canceling headphones, fidget/handheld manipulatives and stress sensory toys, sunglasses, ear plugs, and anything else you may need to ensure maximum comfort and safety. Some fidget and handheld manipulatives will be available to borrow
• Volunteers with identifying t-shirts will be on hand to assist
• Restrooms will accommodate all family members and/or caregivers regardless of gender
• There will be two lounge areas provided for breaks throughout the performance
• Clear signage will direct guests to all key locations
• Concessions stand will be open throughout the event

View images of the theater exterior and interior spaces

Questions

If you have questions about the relaxed performance or would like to bring a group to the show on November 8, please email Marion Young at youngmf@princeton.edu.