Night Terrors

Fear of the night or the unknown is a great premise for many marching band shows but none are like this fright night Jason Nitsch has created to showcase your band’s strengths and creativity. You may wish to start with a classic horror film theme or literature (Edgar Allen Poe, for example) as inspiration for your setting. Consider the addition of voice-overs with dialogue or phrases to heighten the sense of horror.

A sense of eeriness on the field could be created through the use of large backdrops that surround the perimeter of your drill area. Three different options would be to utilize large trees (complete with hanging moss), pillars and monuments for an outdoor look, large walls to create the look of the inside of an old mansion, or recreate a child’s bedroom (where so many scary things can take place.

If you want the auxiliary to portray the “unseen terror” their costuming should be dark and macabre. Include theatrical makeup for the auxiliary and the pit. This show is far from light-hearted so keep your color scheme in the dark hues of black, grey, red, maroon, and purple. Flag colors could add a shock of neon or metallic. If you wish for the auxiliary to be a character that is terrorized, you could outfit them in pajamas or night clothes.

The more ways you add to the mood of suspense and intrigue, the better this show will be received by your audience. Don’t be afraid of going over the top! It is very important that every performer understand their character for this theme. All visuals need to be performed with a sinister motivation. Small gestures and small props will not be effective.

You may also want to accessorize your band uniforms and head gear. Adding fabric sashes, arm ribbons, and a dark plume can further enhance the mood. You could also add theatrical makeup under the performers’ eyes to give a sunken and solemn look.

Other Options for “Night Terrors”:

1) The House on Haunted Hill – Audiences love a great thrill so give them everything you’ve got? Ghosts, zombies, the grim reaper! This music just screams for special effects and scary characters. The more intense feeling, the better!

2) Scary Tales – Have you ever thought about all the fairy tales that actual have a macabre plot? Hansel and Gretel, Little Red Riding Hood and Rumpelstilsken, are just a few examples. This could be a visually intriguing show with the right props and voice overs. And don’t forget the Happily Ever After!