Wynton Marsalis Ensemble on May 17, 2025 | UCSB Arts & Lectures

“Jazz aficionados certainly will appreciate its evocation of early 20th century New Orleans, and those lucky enough to live in certain cities will have the opportunity to hear its rollicking score performed live by its composer Wynton Marsalis, pianist Cecile Licad and a stellar ensemble.” The Hollywood Reporter

“Of course, calling it a silent film is a misnomer – there will be plenty of music, and jazz is like a conversation between the players so there’ll be no shortage of dialogue.” – Wynton Marsalis

As part of a multi-city west coast tour, Wynton Marsalis leads a 13-member all-star ensemble featuring pianist Cecile Licad in a live performance accompanying the silent film LOUIS. In a modern reimagining of early silent film, the grand Storyville bordellos, alleys and cemeteries of 1907 New Orleans provide the backdrop to the fictionalized story of 6-year-old Louis as he dreams of playing the trumpet and navigates the colorful intricacies of life in the city. Featuring classic tunes by Armstrong, Morton, Ellington and more alongside original Marsalis compositions and the music of Creole composer L.M. Gottschalk, LOUIS is an homage to Louis Armstrong, Charlie Chaplin and the birth of American music. (LOUIS: Dan Pritzker, 2010, R, 90 min.)