ORFEA RISING:
A Jazz Myth Suite
A world premiere of music, poetry & aerial dance.
September 5, 2026 • Montavilla Jazz Festival
The Myth We Know
In ancient Greek lore, the legendary musician Orpheus descends into the Underworld to rescue his lost love, only to look back at the last moment and lose her forever to the shadows.
The Myth Re-told
Orfea Rising turns the ancient tale inside out. What if Orpheus is a woman—and what if she doesn't look back?
Instead of a tragic descent into sorrow, Orfea’s journey goes inward. Descending into the deep spaces of heart and memory, she doesn't search for what was lost—she claims what is ever-present. This is not a tale of what is left in the shadows, but of what we ignite when we dare to step forward.
The Experience
Brought to life through brand-new compositions, lyrical poetry, and breathtaking aerial movement, Orfea Rising features a captivating, genre-defying ensemble. Anchored by soulful vocals, cello, vibes, saxophone, bass, and drums, the music spans chamber jazz, deep soul, and lush acoustic textures. It is an invitation to find joy in the shadows, embrace transformation, and sing ourselves home to the light we cannot yet see.
Orfea Rising unfolds as an immersive performance shaped by vibraphone, cello, bass, drums, saxophone, and voice, with movement and improvisation woven throughout.
Both intimate and expansive, the work reflects Rudolph’s longstanding commitment to crossing artistic disciplines while remaining rooted in jazz expression, storytelling, and emotional depth.
THE ENSEMBLE
Shelly Rudolph — Composer & Vocals
Soul-jazz vocalist, songwriter, and poet whose acclaimed releases—including The Way We Love feat. David Darling—blend deep-feeling lyricism, chamber soul, and a voice described as “equal parts sugar and whiskey” (All About Jazz).
Tim Gilson — Musical Director & Cello
Sought-after conductor, arranger, and first-call Pacific Northwest bassist brings his signature groove, deep sensitivity, and improvisational mastery to a rare lead role on the cello.
Devin Phillips — Tenor & Soprano Saxophones
New Orleans-born saxophonist celebrated internationally for his intricate, rhythmically innovative sounds.
Chris Lee — Vibraphone
Master jazz composer, percussionist, and vibraphonist with decades of trailblazing work in chamber jazz.
Andrew Jones — Acoustic & Electric Bass
Versatile bassist, composer, and improviser whose wide-ranging work spans jazz, experimental music, art-pop, and international touring, including with acclaimed composer-songwriter Julia Holter.
Rivkah Ross — Drums & Vocal Harmonies
Acclaimed drummer and composer praised for her "refined sense of swing and agile snare work" (All About Jazz).
Alicia Anthony — Co-Choreography & Aerial Dance
Choreographer, dancer, and former Co-Artistic Director with A-WOL Dance Collective, known for creating evocative, narrative-driven work in the air and on the ground.
Tia Palomino — Co-Choreography & Aerial Dance
Veteran acrobat, dancer, and aerial artist whose credits include Do Jump! Extremely Physical Theatre and SubRosa Dance Collective.