‘DANIEL — Live!’ brings the epic biblical tale to life with a groundbreaking live broadcast of the musical in 900 theaters nationwide for four days starting in late August.
In the grand tradition of epic biblical productions, the inspirational story of Daniel has been mounted as a musical with the grandeur it deserves. Sound & Sight’s ‘DANIEL — Live!’ is also breaking new ground by broadcasting simultaneously in hundreds of movie theaters across the US from August 30 to September 2.
Daniel, a young nobleman taken captive to Babylon, rises through the ranks to become a trusted advisor to kings, demonstrating unwavering faith and extraordinary courage amidst persecution.
Presenting the story of the pivotal figure in the Old Testament for the new generations, ‘DANIEL — Live!’ is infused with breathtaking visuals, powerful performances, and an inspiring message of faith, resilience, and divine protection. Watching it on the big screen merges the immediacy of theater with the immersive experience of cinema.
Sight & Sound is partnering with Fathom Events to broadcast a live theater production in US movie theaters for the first time. After a decade of translating their spectacular stage shows to the screen, they are now bringing a live performance directly to audiences.
When contacted by ALotusInTheMud.com, Sight & Sound’s communication manager Stephanie Lefever said that they expect around 900 theatres nationwide to screen ‘DANIEL — Live!’
Bringing stories of redemption to life
Stephanie highlighted Sight & Sound’s passion for bringing true stories of redemption to life, revealing the power of the Gospel. They operate two theaters staging biblical productions and have a film production company that tells stories of historical figures transformed by Christ.
Currently, ‘DANIEL’ is playing in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, while ‘QUEEN ESTHER’ and ‘MIRACLE OF CHRISTMAS’ take the stage in Branson, Missouri. The 2025 season will feature the 30th Anniversary of ‘NOAH’ in Lancaster, and the debut of ‘DAVID’ in Branson. Although the 2026 season has not yet been announced, they hope to release their second feature film that year.
“We know not everyone can come to us, so we want to take the show to them,” said Katie Miller, Director of Sight & Sound’s Brand Development. “Our goal is to create experiences that extend beyond our stage and unite people in witnessing the Bible come to life in a whole new way.”
Daniel and his companions’ story, marked by unwavering commitment to God even in the face of adversity, has been a source of inspiration for many through the centuries, cementing his role as a prominent prophet in biblical history.
Broadcasting live from Lancaster, ‘DANIEL — Live!’ invites audiences for four days to journey with Daniel. Set during the Babylonian exile, his story is not just about personal steadfastness but also rich in prophetic visions and miraculous events.
“Daniel is best known for vivid dreams, a fiery furnace, and the lion’s den. But as we began crafting this production four years ago, it was Daniel’s steadfast faith that inspired the heart of our story,” Kristen Brewer, Producer of ‘DANIEL’, said.
David was born in Jerusalem into a noble Jewish family and taken into captivity by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. In Babylon, Daniel and his companions were chosen for their intellect and appearance to serve in the king’s palace. Their early refusal of royal food in favor of their dietary laws demonstrated their commitment to their Jewish faith.
With over a dozen cameras capturing every angle, including on stage and behind the scenes, moviegoers will get front-row experience of the spectacular moments of DANIEL as they happen in real-time. The special live broadcast event will also feature exclusive bonus content, including behind-the-scenes interviews and insights into bringing this story to life on stage.
Previous collaborations between Fathom Events and Sight & Sound have been highly successful, including the popular family Christmas film, “I Heard The Bells”, which grossed over $5.6 million at the box office in 2022 and 2023.
Heart of the Daniel story
While exploring the scriptures, Sight & Sound uncovered many profound messages in Daniel’s story.
Daniel’s story is remarkable, but the experiences of his companions, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Babylonian names for Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah), also exemplify profound faith. King Nebuchadnezzar built a colossal golden statue and commanded everyone to worship it. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused, remaining devoted to God over the king’s decree. Enraged, Nebuchadnezzar ordered them to be thrown into a blazing furnace as punishment (Daniel 3:19-20).
In an extraordinary turn of events, they emerged unscathed, without even the scent of fire. Witnessing this miracle, Nebuchadnezzar praised their God and acknowledged His power to save (Daniel 3:28-29). This event demonstrated not only the unyielding faith of Daniel’s companions but also God’s protective hand over those who stand firm in their beliefs.
These episodes in Daniel’s life and those of his companions reveal the complexity and challenges of maintaining faith in a foreign land. Their experiences serve as a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to God, even in the face of great adversity, further cementing Daniel’s role as a prominent prophet in biblical history.
