The Bell Ringer—Aladdin Theater—SE Portland

    This was a one-night event here locally and is, and has been, touring the country to promote a new, holiday rock opera, which is said to expand its wings at some point in the future.  It is created by Peter Orullian with his group, Symphony North.  For more information on this company and the show, go to their site at www.symphonynorth.com 

“Try a Little Kindness”

In Creation, we play,

To no one’s dismay.

Tis that time of year

For Christmas Good Cheer—

A Time for Giving,

A Time for Strife.

What have we to offer,

To a contrasting plight,

But a promise to live,

An uncompromising Life!

    The narration is written in rhyme for this production, so I decided to give it a try, too, with lesser results, of course.  My head was full last night and early this morning, of musings on the experience.  There have been some pretty exceptional rock operas of the past, such as The Who’s, Tommy; Jesus Christ Superstar; and, my own personal favorite (which resembles this a bit in intent), the short opera of the classic story, The Little Match Girl.

    “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus…” as the famous editorial goes, but it is really a growth of Spirit, of Good Will, of Innocence…and Giving of Self.  We are not there yet, but the signs are all around us, that it is still not too late, if we but have the eyes to see, the ears to hear and the hearts to encompass the true intent of (Hu)Mankind:  To embrace the Earth and live in Harmony with it, to believe in a Higher Power than ours and to Love Unconditionally all “creatures, great and small.”

    It is our destiny, I believe, but we have strayed very far from that path.  Our mis-steps are costing us dearly but here are voices in this wilderness that are crying out for change…the Youth.  Those inheritors that are standing up to ones opposing gun control and environmental changes, are being noticed.  After all, look at who is Time’s, Person of the Year, a young Nordic girl doing just that.  “And a Child shall lead them,” it is said, but what if no one is listening…or following?!

    Yes, I digress, but only in content, perhaps, not spirit, of the concert.  The story is told in periodic prose narratives, very well delivered, and many rock songs and music to infuse the soul with the rhythm for the rhyme.  A small band of singers, two females and two males (including the creator), guitarists, keyboard, drums and a violinist/fiddler, as well as an extraordinary light show...all combine to create a transcending experience!

    Yes, you do need ear plugs and, if possible, sunglasses (which actually some people had), as the sights and sounds might likely blow the lid off the place.  Also, they need a much larger venue for this type of production.  And, please, next time, programs, so that we can properly credit all the folks involved.  And the music, too overpowering at times, which drowned out the vocals, making the story less comprehensible.  But those are small criticisms for such a large output of giving!

    The story involves a homeless man, who takes the job of a bell ringer (you know, those nameless folks, usually ignored) that greet one at the doors of stores, asking for a few coins for the needy.  It reflects, through songs and story, some of the people he comes in contact with on his silent journey…a veteran, who is losing hope; a sickly child, possibly passing from this mortal realm; an old bag lady, giving what may be her last cent to his pot; a loudly, vocal critic; a band of carolers, et. al., a microcosm of America, perhaps (and very timely).  The talent involved is unbelievably excellent!  And, of the whole, marvelous troupe of performers and lightning designers, my eyes were constantly drawn to the young lady on the violin, very proficient, animated and lovely.

    It is that time of year, of all good times, when Want is sorely felt and a helping hand for all should be evident, as Dickens has expressed.  But why should it just be once a year?!  Instead of endlessly taking selfies (a very appropriate word for where are interests seem to lie); buying that second (or third car) for the family, as advertisers want; or other baubles, that express greed, not graciousness…why not try a little kindness to those less fortunate…go ahead, do it just once…it feels good to give, and you receive a warmth that money really can’t buy.  And, wouldn’t it be terrible if that caused a contagion, an epidemic…what a different world we would have then if it caught on…!

    I highly recommend this show, so track their progress wherever they may light.  And if you do choose to see them, or contact them, tell them Dennis sent you forth to bless their path.

--DJS