The Family that Plays Together...

The Family that Plays Together...
November 1 | 6-8pm - Silver Street Studios
Featuring CHALLENGER and House of Ward

FotoFest and Nameless Sound present The Family that Plays Together…, an evening of intergenerational music-making in an intimate setting, featuring CHALLENGER and House of Ward. These Houston-based “family bands” will bring their sibling, parental, and filial dynamics to the stage, blending deep-rooted relationships with the spirit of experimentation.

The performances draw inspiration from the concurrent exhibition nothing is precious, everything is game, a career survey of artists Stephan Hillerbrand and Mary Magsamen that transforms everyday objects and family rituals into profound reflections on art, life, and togetherness. Expect an unforgettable night where sound, family, and creativity intersect.

About CHALLENGER:
CHALLENGER is comprised of sculptor/musician Randi Long and her mother Donna “Sally” Brannon. Described by themselves: "CHALLENGER is either a monologue with a bratty accompanist, or an instrument with an unreliable mouthpiece. Oscillating between tension and release, confidence and vulnerability, fact and fiction- CHALLENGER is an unhinged clash of mother and daughter fighting for recognized individualism with the immature hope for collective catharsis.” Every CHALLENGER concert is distinct, and nothing should be expected. But we’ve been told that the “instrumentation” for this outing will be: “Rocks, paper, scissors/secrets and dialogue from movies/motors and microphones.”  

About House of Ward:
Led and parented by Mvskoke composer/woodwind player Aryn Ward and husband/trombonist/band director Jacob Ward, The House of Ward also includes: Jaycie (14 years old) on euphonium, Jaxton (11) on French horn, Joshua (10) on alto sax, and Journey (7) on recorder and percussion. In their own words: “Whether performing original compositions, spontaneous improvisations, or playful family collaborations, the House of Ward invites audiences into a space of music, laughter, and shared story. Their concerts celebrate the joys of growing, learning, and creating together as a family.”