University of Wisconsin-Madison assistant professor of trumpet Jean Laurenz created “DESCENDED,” a multimedia show of chamber music, theatrical performance and film that played at the Memorial Union Black Box theater on Oct. 19 and 20.
The show aims to take its audience on a spiritual quest to the paranormal and an otherworldly state of mind. “It’s about what happens when we, in our real physical lives, hit that membrane or cross over into that space of the beyond,” Laurenz told The Daily Cardinal. “Of the things that we'll never be able to touch, whether it's the moon or our spiritual ponderings […] We can find beauty within fear.”
Laurenz fills the room with vocals and her trumpet and is joined by professional musicians Maria Finkelheier and Greg Jukes. The three co-direct and are featured in this 55-minute show, with visuals by Xuan, the film by Four/Ten Media and music by Finkelmeier. Their work has amassed 15 nominations and awards, including from the Wisconsin Film Festival.
Laurenz’ great-great uncle and accomplished writer Lafcadio Hearn is the muse behind “DESCENDED.” A 19th century journalist, wayward traveler, teacher and meta-folk-ghost-story writer, Hearn followed his heart into the unknown.
Hearn’s metaphysical literature explores paranormal and dissonant cognitive states, and Laurenz found peace through his story as she navigated the uncertainties of a career in the arts.
“I found a lot of hope and inspiration in how one can build a beautiful life that wanders,” Laurenz said. “It gave me so much comfort just to know that I come from somebody like that.”
In their post-performance Q&A, the artists shared how liberating they feel letting go of the sheet music and focusing on gestures and the narrative arc. Rather than sticking to a rigid plan, they bring about authentic evocations, connecting to their storytelling on a deeply emotional level.
