Local Musician Damein Wash Scores Oxford High School Theatre Production “Shadow of the Son”

An original play by Oxford native Kate Leslie, scored by renowned local musician Damein Wash

Oxford witnessed history being made with its high-ranking student theatre and arts talent when Oxford High School Theatre presented the world-premiere of Shadow of the Son last week.

The play, that was performed from Thursday to Saturday, February 29 to March 2, started each day at 7:30 pm in the Ava H. Bonds Auditorium.

About the Play

The play offers a contemporary perspective on the lives of twin gods Artemis and Apollo—kin of Zeus as per Greek mythology. Authored by Oxford native and past Oxford Middle School drama teacher Kate Leslie, it presents a rare take on these iconic characters, symbolizing the moon and sun respectively.

Music Behind the Play

Illuminated by the original music scored by local musician Damein Wash, the play garnered attention for not just its theme but the maestro himself. A former coworker of Leslie, Wash was thrilled to call her collaboration a “dream come true”.

“John picked it up and decided to make a big production out of it, involving a credible costume designer and choreographer. He then approached me to pen some music to it—and I was only too glad to oblige,” said Wash

Wash’s Undertaking the Challenge

An exciting challenge, the creation of unique music for all 18 scenes was a brand-new assignment for the seasoned musician. Wash said he read every scene multiple times before developing them into music. “I’ve written music for short films before, but a stage act is new to me”, he mentioned.

Young Talents of Oxford High School

Wash applauded the students of Oxford High, who in certain cases mastered playing two different instruments for the on-site recording sessions at OHS. With his profound confidence in them, he is sure they will do justice to the intricate score that includes 18 different scenes and repeated themes.

“They are indeed talented musicians to be able to pull this off,” he asserted.

Damein Wash’s Approach to Music

Regarding his version of adapting instrumental music to a rather complex, provocative stage take on divine twins with polarised outlooks, Wash elaborated, “I try to illustrate as much as I can with the music by capturing the characters, scenes, moods, and emotions and fitting them into the narrative of the play”.

The highly-anticipated high-scale production has got the town of Oxford eager to behold the grandeur. “It’ll be a true spectacle to witness,” said Wash. To add to the delight, Wash’s score—mostly instrumental—would also be enlivened by some live singing from the cast.

Conclusion

This uniquely exciting venture gave Wash an exceptional opportunity to compose and witness his music being played out by talented individuals. “I’ve been making music around this town for a long time, and it’s just particularly nice to be connected with the school and community like this,” Wash spoke with evident joy. Tickets are available at oxfordhs.booktix.com