If you would like to rent any of the JWO productions for your own orchestra or ensemble, or book the James Whale Orchestra itself, – this page should answer most of your questions. We aim to make a live soundtrack concert experience accessible to anyone. Most of our productions exist in the original version for small groups, and an expanded version for larger ensembles and orchestras, and we can also assist you with screening rights.
The basic requirements are a sound system and a beamer/screen.
Productions:
Blackmail
Alfred Hitchcock 1927 / 84m / black and white / silent / bluray hd
Blackmail exists in two versions.
The original version:
1(+pic+afl)01(+bcl)0/0000/1perc(see list)/bandoneon/str10011 + samples/fx
This version requires the percussionist, bass and at least two other players to use a click track earpiece. The bandoneon can be replaced by accordion (although the Bandoneon sounds better we think…)
The expanded ensemble/orchestral version:
1(+picc+alf)1(+ca)1(+bcl)1(+cfg)/1110/2perc(see list)/bandoneon/str 11111 + samples/fx
This version requires the conductor to use a clicktrack earpiece. The soundtrack is very tightly syncronized, so we do not recommend using time codes.
Percussion list:
Vibraphone (with motor)
Bongos 1 low 1 high
Congas 1 low 1 high
Vibraslap
Bubblewrap
Temple blocks set
Timpani(3)/or
City Girl
F.W. Murnau 1930 / 89m / black and white / silent / bluray hd
City Girl exists in two versions:
The original version:
Piano solo, Harp solo, Cello/Banjo solo + samples/fx
This version requires all players to use a clicktrack earpiece.
The orchestral version:
Solo Piano, Solo Harp, Solo Banjo 1111.1100.perc(see list).celeste+organ(keyboard)/str + samples/fx
This version can be conducted using a combination of a clicktrack and time codes, or simply a clicktrack. We can supply a conductor with the necessary experience.
Percussion list:
Timpani(3)
Temple blocks
Crotales
Frankenstein
James Whale 1931 / 72m / black and white / sound / bluray hd
Available from 2025
The Invisible Man
James Whale 1933 / 72m / black and white / sound / bluray hd
Available from 2025