BSC student explores music and photography in production of ‘35mm’

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Matthew Torbett, a senior musical theatre major at Birmingham-Southern College, has been fascinated for several years with “35mm: A Musical Exhibition,” a theatrical song cycle written by Ryan Scott Oliver and based on photography by Oliver’s husband and collaborator, Matthew Murphy.

“I discovered the original cast recording during my senior year of high school, and I came into BSC with the inkling of the idea of directing my own production,” Torbett said.

“I fell in love with the concept for the show,” he said. “It’s all music inspired by photography, or photography inspired by music.”

Then Torbett saw what he calls a “brilliant” staging of the show in London in 2017. He said he was “immediately inspired” to direct his own production of the play, which had its off-Broadway premiere in 2012.

Torbert will realize his dream this month. He’ll direct a production of “35mm” at BSC from March 12-15 in the College Theatre Underground.

Showtimes will be Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Some of Murphy’s photographs will be on display in the lobby.

Originally from Bristol, Tennessee, Torbett plans to pursue a career as an actor, designer and director. He starred in a production of the musical “Falsettos” at BSC in November. In 2018, he directed a piece in the school’s annual 15-minute play festival.

“35mm” has a cast of five and a crew of about 10, plus faculty mentor Michael Flowers. He is intrigued by “35mm” because it explores the relationships human beings have with both music and photography.

“We interact with them on a daily basis and link so many memories to them both,” he said. “It’s a meaningful combination.”

The play is “very rooted in memory and the things that connect us and make us human,” Torbett said. “It’s funny and heartwarming, but there are also moments where we’re reminded of the memories that hurt, too.”

Torbett said he is also excited for audience members to see Murphy’s photographs, which inspired Oliver’s music.

He has also expressed himself in a different medium, presenting a fashion show and exhibit called “se camper” at BSC in December for his Harrison Honors Program project.

It was inspired by Torbett’s research into the nature of camp, including Broadway costumes and Hollywood designer Bob Mackie.

For tickets to “35mm,” go to bsc.edu/ academics/theatre.