Theatre Experience

I’ve been fortunate to collaborate on several theatre productions that have expanded my musical range and sharpened my ability to adapt to different styles, genres, and thematic needs. One of my most recent projects is Of Mice and Men with Eagles Nest Theatre, which takes a unique approach by blending 1920s Americana/Appalachian music with contemporary elements focused on men’s mental health. This production also incorporates audience participation, adding an extra layer of complexity. In addition to scoring the play, I’m in discussions to score a documentary being filmed about the rehearsal process, which requires balancing these period-specific sounds with modern compositions for the mental health themes and a documentary score.

Currently, I’m also working on Provenance, directed by Phil Roberts, a play set in 1920s Soviet Russia. This production requires tense, atmospheric music that feels authentic to the era. For this project, I’ve been researching Soviet-era musical techniques, instrumentation, and cultural themes, in order to create a soundscape that captures the mood of that time—steeped in tension, uncertainty, and the political climate of early Soviet Russia. The work involves blending historical musicology with modern production techniques to evoke the right emotional tone.

The images above are from Oedipus at the Malthouse Theatre. Initially, I researched and composed music inspired by ancient Greek traditions to fit the play’s historical context. However, after collaborative discussions with the director, we both felt a more contemporary sound would better serve the production. This blend of ancient and modern elements brought the production to life in a way that connected both with the original story and contemporary audiences. Open communication and adaptability were key to this process, and I bring the same collaborative mindset to every project I take on.

One of my most recent projects is Of Mice and Men with Eagles Nest Theatre, which takes a unique approach by blending 1920s Americana/Appalachian music with contemporary elements focused on men’s mental health. This production also incorporates audience participation, adding an extra layer of complexity. In addition to scoring the play, I’m in discussions to score a documentary being filmed about the process, which requires balancing these period-specific sounds with modern compositions for the mental health themes and a documentary score.

My first experience in theatre sound design came with 1984, also with Eagles Nest Theatre. In that production, I worked closely with the show's composer, recording and even performing some of the music. This early exposure to the collaborative nature of theatre sound design laid the foundation for my current approach—one that prioritises both the director’s vision and the emotional depth of the music.

Listen to some examples of my work in theatre. My compositions span a wide spectrum, from the unsettling dissonance of "Wings," featuring a blend of guitar, accordion, clarinet, and violin inspired by Soviet propaganda and Cossack music, to the introspective textures of "Yair Textures," where shimmering static and delicate piano evoke the complexities of mental health.

Music has the power to capture the subtle shades of human experience. This is reflected in pieces like "Uncertain Blues," where a slightly off-kilter bluesy guitar riff and a tension-filled clarinet line convey the weary journey of two travelers, or in "Sad Travels," where the expressive violin captures the despair of a dashed hope.

Collaboration is an essential part of my process. I often work closely with actors and directors, weaving their insights and experiences into the music. This is evident in pieces like "Ho Hey," a vocal warm-up incorporating stomping, ashtrays, and found objects, and "Hillbilly Rhythms," an upbeat piece inspired by actors' personal experiences with mental health.

My work on "Oedipus" demonstrates an ability to create music that amplifies the play's themes. From the urgent "Guitar Pulse," featuring a backwards guitar, to the opulent and sensual melodies of "Fire Flow," and the chaotic dissonance of "Fire Intense," which combines synthesizers, scratching noises, and sound effects, my music underscores the tragedy and psychological depth of the story.

A lifelong love of film, particularly the innovation and boundary-pushing nature of experimental cinema, fuels my desire to collaborate with filmmakers and explore the potential of music to elevate their storytelling. I'm passionate about crafting scores that create an evocative atmosphere, deepen emotional impact, and provide a subliminal layer of meaning that resonates with audiences.

I am drawn to the challenge of creating music that not only serves the narrative but also pushes creative boundaries. Music has the power to transform any medium, and I am passionate about exploring its full potential.

"Working with Damian on Oedipus was just a joy, he created the sound track in no time and it brought our show to a higher level! Having him performing live with us was incredible. Always available, creative, positive, I’ll definitely work with him again"

- Helene Tardif. Actor, writer, director

Get in touch

Let's collaborate on your next project

damian@thesoundscore.com

damianpitcon@gmail.com