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And the masterful composer and performer Tom Teasley once again provides atmospheric music throughout the show from a position on A.J. Guban's set. The Washington Post- Celia Wren
The play begins with a primal symphony of Tom Teasley's drums, resonating with one another from the small depression he occupies in the middle of the stage. Teasley, a Constellation associate artist, three-time recipient of the Fulbright-Hayes grant and former Kennedy Center artist in residence, has traveled the world to collaborate with indigenous musicians, creating a unique fusion of cultural influences. For this production, his score blends 20 different ancient and modern instruments to seamlessly integrate the rhythmic structures of India with those of American jazz.
At first it seems strange that Teasley is so prominently featured at center stage, until it becomes clear that music is the soul of this production.
This is not a play with background music, or even musical theater. It is storytelling in voice and motion to the persistent beat and notes of drums, flute and keyboard, driving and heightening the intensity of the narrative from the first moment to the last. The performers that surround Teasley are acting out a story, one that's more poem than script, as he calls the tune.
Capitol Hill Rag - Barbara Wells
Teasley sets the mood for each scene, and draws the audience in like a snake charmer." - Molly Cox Brightest Young Thing
The other element of the show that really provides bang for your buck is Tom Teasley's music, which is not only the soundtrack of the play, but the transitional mortar that holds the plays scenes together. He plays and mixes this music live with a stunning array of instruments, including a Melodica, various drums, and a looper to replay the sounds he's just created to create layered music. Teasley's work keeps The Fire and the Rain in the source material with his melodic choices, but also keeps the audience present with his on-the-fly mixing, smoothing over rough transitions with an interlude of his own. He's fun to watch, and even though he was on the stage the entire time, I kept wanting more of him.-
At the center of the action (literally) sits composer and musician Tom Teasley, whose eclectic instrumentation and talent for improvisation give us that wonderful, otherworldly feel. A recording of his work for the show is available for purchase here, but there is simply no substitute for seeing him interact with the cast live, adding his own narrative and emotional touches as the story unfolds. - Andrew White Broadway World
I have recorded a soundtrack to the show that is only available through Constellation Theatre through the run.
Dreams of Indiais a solo recording featuring all of the instruments form the show with several additions.
I have also arranged for a 25% discount for my friends and subscribers with the code word "drummer"
Please visit here to preview and purchase my previous CDs.
Here is a video of a performance of the multi percussion featuring me on doumbek. Please enjoy, Fire Dance!
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