Oratorio for Living Things is a genre-blending musical work that contemplates the forces governing the cosmos alongside the deeply personal mechanisms of human memory. Set in an immersive environment, the piece functions as both a meditation and a ritual, using layered choral and instrumental composition to explore existence at both a microscopic and universal scale.

Written and composed by Heather Christian, the production is staged by Obie Award-winning director Lee Sunday Evans (Dance Nation, Intractable Woman). Christian, known for her innovative works such as Animal Wisdom and Mission Drift, weaves together elements of classical oratorio with jazz, gospel, blues, and folk. The virtuosic ensemble of vocalists and instrumentalists forms the centerpiece of the piece, performing live in close proximity to the audience to heighten the sensory and spatial experience.

Originally developed at Ars Nova and revived here by Signature Theatre, the work is part of Christian’s ongoing artistic exploration of spirituality, science, and sonic storytelling. Oratorio for Living Things returns with acclaim after earlier runs and now finds a new life in the intimate Romulus Linney Courtyard Theatre.