For nearly five decades, Sight & Sound Theatres® has been captivating audiences with its fantastic productions of familiar Bible stories. Always at the forefront of technology and creativity, Sight & Sound brings Scripture to life on stage with its original Broadway-style shows. Now, the innovative company is once again charting new territory as it brings the big stage to the big screen when “DANIEL — Live!” broadcasts in real time to movie theaters nationwide Aug. 30 - Sept. 2, 2024.
In partnership with Fathom Events, this theatrical release will mark the first time Sight & Sound has ever streamed one of their performances into movie theaters live. On Friday, Aug. 30, as attendees gather in Sight & Sound’s flagship theater in Lancaster, Penn., people across the country will also have the chance to sit in movie theaters and watch the same show at the same time. Additional encore performances will follow in select theaters throughout Labor Day weekend.
“We know not everyone can come to us, so we want to take the show to them,” shares Katie Miller, Sight & Sound’s Director of Brand Development. “We cannot wait to share Daniel’s story with movie goers across the country, and we hope his powerful story inspires audiences of all ages.”
Sight & Sound’s largest production to date, “DANIEL” profiles the biblical hero, who had a God-given talent for interpreting dreams. This particular gift allowed Daniel to rise to power in Babylon, a city where the native Hebrew was forced to live in exile for 70 years. Under many a king’s reign, Daniel was forced to prove himself faithful time and time again — not to the royalty of the day or the numerous gods of idol worship, but to the God he wholeheartedly served.
From his best friends — Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego — being thrown in a fiery furnace to spending his own dark night of the soul in the lions’ den, Daniel’s remarkable journey is brought to life in full color thanks to Sight & Sound’s state-of-the art production and massive set design. Intentional to keep the story as biblically accurate as possible, while also making way for some well-placed dramatic liberties, “DANIEL” helps viewers understand the often complex storyline found in the Old Testament book in a profound way.
“As we began creating this production four years ago, it was Daniel’s unwavering faith throughout these trials that inspired the heart of our story,” offers show producer Kristen Brewer.
In addition to an original script, “DANIEL” also boasts an original score with songs written specifically for this show. In addition, every Sight & Sound production includes live animals. Bearded dragons and Maine Coon cats were added to their menagerie this year to help bring Babylon to life on stage. Moreover, approximately 830 costumes and nearly 3,500 individual wardrobe pieces were crafted for “DANIEL.”
Fully immersing viewers in ancient Babylon, the spectacular palace design is comprised of two computerized set pieces that measure more than 20 feet in diameter and can be driven around the stage throughout the performance. Meanwhile, 16 LED screens are built into the set, allowing every scene in “DANIEL” to incorporate an element of media. There’s even an opulent boat constructed to look like it’s floating down the Nile.
With more than a dozen cameras capturing the action from every angle and a phenomenal cast of actors, singers, dancers and storytellers, this one-of-a-kind theatrical experience is something the entire family can enjoy. However, parents should note that the runtime is over two hours, and portions of the production might be frightening for young children, due to the inherent content, which dramatizes dreams, fiery furnaces, ferocious lions, angry threats, dry bones coming to life and a king gone mad.
“DANIEL” first premiered at Sight & Sound’s Lancaster location in March. The stage production will continue through Dec. 31, 2024, for fans interested in seeing it in person. Simultaneously, the company’s original show, “QUEEN ESTHER,” is playing at their second theater in Branson, Mo., through Oct. 5, 2024.
When “DANIEL — Live!” comes to theaters across the U.S. for this exclusive weekend event, movie goers will be treated to additional bonus content, including interviews with cast and crew, as well as a behind-the-scenes look at how the colossal production is brought to life on stage. For more information, visit, www.danielevent.com.
