This documentary is about the transformation process that takes place within the hearts of those affected by the adversity and despair as demonstrated in the aftermath of the catastrophic effects of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita late 2005.

From conception to achievement, we initially watch the efforts and hardships of several Australian and Canadian volunteers who attempt to gather a thousand voices from the survivors to form something uniquely special, and which soon becomes known as the Hurricane Choir. Survivors try to cast aside their trauma as they struggle with their fears and their numbers to sing in defiance of Mother Nature’s hurricanes.

We focus on the lives of several everyday Southern Louisiana and Mississippi people. All are strangers to each other and also from very different social backgrounds, but now they find themselves on the same page with a common purpose. Many have suffered deeply from these events. We will learn what they have lost and what they grieve for. We will listen to their stories; share their tears, experiences and pain as we look deep inside the hurt that has surfaced in the aftermath of these massive hurricanes.

We will go inside survivors homes ruined by flooding, follow them as they deal with the basic necessities of life; re-establish employment, family, friends and reconnect with broken communities.

Through the development of the Hurricane Choir, we will witness the transformation and the challenges that people undergo through gathering, rehearsal and preparation for major a performance. As the choir rehearsals draw near to their first major public performance, we will also see how a choir community can contribute to people rebuilding their lives, homes, their sense of community and how through the power of music pull themselves out of the depression while those outside the choir stagnate by comparison.

This documentary will demonstrate the change that can take place in the human heart when music has an impact on individual lives. It will show how singing can revitalize a greater sense of humanity in the community; encouraging and empowering the will of the human spirit. We will watch as the choir grows, shrinks, fades and grows again in triumph; success is not an easy road.

The central focus of the Hurricane Choir will be to bring a message of hope, endurance and survival. Furthermore, it will show how community spirit can carve out a better future and transformation people when they work together and for each other. This focus will be captured in the closing scene with the monumental performance of a thousand voices.

The impact of this choir and its achievements will become a blue print for positive social change and help both mental health professionals and survivors to deal with the post traumatic state of mind following a disaster.

 
Hereward Dundas-Taylor
Producer/Director
Australia