REMEMBERING E.T.

On Saturday night, I joined with my family at the Orpheum Theater in New Orleans to enjoy the music of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra in their production of the music sound track to the classic movie E.T. A unique idea to adapt the score for live performance while viewing the classic film. I cannot improve on the note from the composer, John Williams that appears in the program. “Steven Spielberg’s film, E.T. the Extra Terrestrial has always held a special place in my heart, and I personally think it’s his masterpiece. In looking at it today, it’s as fresh and new as when it was made in 1982. Cars may change, along with hairstyles and clothes…but the performance, particularly by the children and by E.T. himself, are so honest, timeless, and true that the film absolutely qualifies to be a classic.” Referring to the Orpheum performance, Mr. Williams further states, “What’s particularly  special about tonight’s concert is that we’ll hear one of our great symphony orchestras, the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, performing the entire score live, along with the complete picture, sound effects, and dialogue.” I completely agree with Mr. William’s note of confidence. His score is beautiful, the movie is magic, and the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra excels in performance.

   

Enhanced by the charm, authenticity, and excellent service of the Orpheum (my second visit for this unique art, the first being, Wizard of Oz, several months ago), I particularly appreciate this form of renewing remarkable memories of an earlier time. Quoting Mr. Williams comments as he concluded his remarks, “I know I speak for everyone connected with the making of E.T. in saying that we’re greatly honored by this event…and I hope that tonight’s audience will find great joy in experiencing this magical film.”

I know I speak for my family when I express my gratitude for this incredible evening that brought to memory a nostalgic era of the past. Mr. Spielberg and Mr. Williams have indeed created a magical event for all generations to enjoy. And the exceptional talent of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra adds to the perfection and excitement.  As the music combined with the intense action portrayed on the screen, suspended above the orchestra, drew to an end with the final overture performed while the credits rolled down the screen, I found my mind drifting back to the 1980s trying to remember just where we were in the space programs, and how much did we know about space at that time of the E.T. venture.

Recalling my experience working in the early space program (refer blog, Dare to Dream, 4/17/16), I realized that by 1982, NASA experiments with the Space Shuttle were well underway following the Apollo program that resulted in the moon landing on July 20, 1969. An optimistic future for the space program seemed evident. However, beginning with the Challenger accident in 1986 and several succeeding failures, the enthusiasm for pioneering suffered a huge setback. World affairs and softening of the economy defunded NASA and America abandoned space exploration. Presently, a private company struggles with the research and development of a positive space future, and we can hope they will succeed.

In the era of E.T. sightings of unidentified flying objects were common and stories of abductions by space men (usually thought of as little green men) were bantered about in tabloid newspapers. On occasion, a story would be reported by the news media and especially surrounding the often discussed elusive Area 51, supposedly tucked away in the desert protecting secrets for the government. Many science fiction stories filled our book shelves speculating about space travel and extra-terrestrials. E.T. is a magical fantasy surrounding children even as other science fiction stories have done. With no claim to reality, it simply portrays the link between children and the fantasy world with a touching story of the love that developed between the young boy and the space creature. If other life exists in the universe, and I believe it's possible (I find assuming the earth is unique, and God’s only creation, is questionable and limits His power), we could hope that men will control the quest for power and greed and react with caution when confronting extra terrestrial life, carefully creating an environment where the innocence of E.T. could be nurtured. However, in our present world, optimism is difficult in view of the aggressive nature of mankind.

In summary, the beautiful magic of E.T. continues to be loved by generations of new viewers as well as remembered by past decades of theater patrons.  The first time I viewed E.T. in the early 80s when it premiered, the film aroused a standing ovation. Certainly, Saturdays’ ovation expressed the greatest appreciation and love for the LPO as well as the classic movie. For those who live in Louisiana communities, I urge you to become acquainted with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra making opportunity to enjoy their many venues of performance afforded Louisiana citizens. For their Calendar of Events for this season, visit LPOmusic.com. I guarantee you will be rewarded with excellent talent and entertainment regardless of your music preferences.