The musicians of Broadway’s orchestra pits are seldom visible, but they are essential to the productions that bring audiences to live shows. As an integral part of storytelling in theater, the music moves the plot forward, intensifies the experience, and communicates how the story is meant to feel. Nick Jemo and Jesse-Ray Leich, both graduates of URI's music department, are musicians working in Broadway orchestra pits.

At this event, Jemo and Leich will discuss a range of topics: from how they got to Broadway to amusing anecdotes about what actually goes on in orchestra pits to reflections on the changing landscape of live musical theater.  They will also perform songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Mary Poppins, & Juliet, and Mr. Saturday Night. These selections cover the most profound to the lightest ways of being – an apt expression of the human experience.

This event is part of the Center for the Humanities' "Innovations in Storytelling" series, and is co-sponsored by the Kingston Chamber Music Festival.