Seeing Death Clearly Music, Mortality, and Meaning: The Story of 'Nightside Songs'
In this episode, we are joined by Daniel and Patrick Lazour, the creators of Nightside Songs, and Taibi Magar, the director of its Philadelphia production. Nightside Songs is more than a musical—it’s an immersive and communal experience that explores caregiving, illness, death, and the end-of-life journey. Audiences actively participate by singing, transforming each performance into a shared ritual rather than a traditional stage production.
The idea for Nightside Songs began in 2019. Originally conceived as a book musical, the Lazours struggled to capture the depth of the subject. Their experiences with palliative care and end-of-life conversations led them to rethink their approach, shaping a production that blends music, storytelling, and communal participation.
Unlike a traditional musical with a fixed structure, Nightside Songs is fluid and ever-changing. The Lazours wrote and refined numerous songs, adapting them through rehearsal and live performance. Each show responds to the audience’s energy, making every experience unique and deeply personal. This adaptability creates a space where audiences can connect with themes of grief and mortality in an intimate and meaningful way.
At its heart, Nightside Songs is both a theatrical event and a collective act of remembrance. It brings people together to confront universal experiences—illness, loss, and caregiving—while fostering connection and healing. The cast, a mix of longtime collaborators and new voices, delivers powerful performances that resonate across all backgrounds. In a world where conversations about death are often avoided, this production offers a rare and cathartic space to engage with these realities.
https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/night-side-songs/
https://philadelphiatheatrecompany.org/nsstour/
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