Hercules: a Pictorial Jazzification

Hercules is an actual legend beloved of art and cinema; an ancient mythological half-god/half-bruiser tasked with confronting the havoc wreaked upon the ancient world by the erratic gods. Duke Ellington is an actual legend too; a giant of twentieth century jazz composition who crafted suites for royalty, and spent decades recounting the epic African American story symphonically. What happens when AAIS performance artist, David McAlmont and DJ Mista Pierre splice the mythical man to the legendary music in an indulgent, irreverent, immersive performance presentation? Amusement, entertainment and enlightenment... hopefully.

David McAlmont is a recording artist and art historian who developed his performance presentation style at AAIS over the last decade. He has recorded for Virgin Records and EMI, studied Performing Arts at Middlesex University and History of Western Art and Architecture at Birkbeck. His Girl Boy Child performance for the National Trust was part of the Pink Award winning Prejudice and Pride project. His latest recording, The Last Bohemians is a Sunday Times and Jazz FM Record of the Week.

Mista Pierre is a DJ and Producer from London, UK, for major clubs, multiple residencies and special events worldwide. His BSc Honours in Computer Science & Media from University of Hertfordshire contributed significantly to the development of his sound design. A popular club presence known for seamlessly moving between multiple genres during sets, he also creates distinctive soundscapes, remixes and edits, while maintaining positive, uplifting vibes.

Image: Herakles Farnese Hellenistic 2nd/1st BCE