Symphonic Suspense: The BSO Brings JAWS to the Big Screen

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the water… The BSO performed the entire original soundtrack live as the movie was projected on a large screen suspended over the stage where the orchestra sat.

People arrived with giddy anticipation, many patrons donning Jaws-inspired attire. A large water-scene backdrop was set up, complete with an inflatable shark and beach balls, inviting people to have their picture taken! A concessions area offered food, candy, popcorn, and an assortment of beverages. The venue was perfectly set for movie-theater mode.

Once the seats were taken, the highly respected conductor Sarah Hicks briskly walked across the stage to her podium and, with a quick bow to the audience, the lights went down. The orchestra was off and running, presenting renowned composer John Williams’s entire score—beautifully and meticulously executed.

Throughout the movie, everyone was fully engaged. There was a brief intermission. Towards the end of the film (I don’t want to give anything away…), the shark is finally annihilated! The room erupted in a round of robust applause. As one of the main characters, Hooper, surfaced from the water’s murky depths to reunite with the Chief, a collective verbal “YES” was heard from the audience.

In the end, as the orchestra played until the final credit rolled into darkness and the last instrumental note was heard, the audience rapidly rose with thunderous clapping and a standing ovation.