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Senior Beth Smalley conducting

The Ben Davis marching band is bringing more than music to life in one of its most mystical shows yet.

As part of their routine, Rituals, the ensemble stumbles upon an ancient village and in doing so activates a shaman, the last member of the civilization that used to thrive there. He revives the site’s spirits, causing them to dance, while the musicians tell two tales of this historic group of people: one of a young boy transforming into a warrior and another relating a belligerent battle scene.

Such a complex and exciting show is the product of hard work from multiple individuals. Romero Braverro, the band’s program designer and visionary behind some of the country’s top drum shows, suggested the theme. His idea was followed by months of meetings and development.

While those who worked to assemble the show’s framework can be commended for their commitment, those who execute it are tasked with the most demanding and rewarding mission.

“Other bands march and play, but we march, play and dance. There are three levels of involvement,” band director David Cole said.

To prepare for this physically as well as musically difficult performance, band members have been engaging in physical training for at least 45 minutes a day and each had to run a mile in less than ten minutes.

“The thought that marching band is soft is kind of old,” Cole said.

As demanding as marching band is, every bit of effort its members give becomes worth it when the ensemble succeeds during performances and competitions. Individuals interested in learning how the group’s melodic adventure ends can attend any of their upcoming appearances on September 13, 14, 21, 27 or 28; October 5, 18, 19 or 26 or November 2, 8-9 or 14-26.