Beyond Words: a lament - New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

New Zealand Symphony Orchestra — Director, Cinematographer Paris shoot featuring composer John Psathas and singer Oum El Ghaït Benessahraoui.

Project Completed – “Beyond Words” Paris Interview Shoot

Rohan Thomas – Director of Photography, Cinematographer & Sound Recordist
Client/Commission: Shona Jaunas, New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO)
Location: Paris, France

Produced and directed a focused interview with composer John Psathas and vocalist‑lyricist Oum El Ghaït Benessahraioui.

Rohan Thomas operated the camera, selected lenses, set lighting, and recorded pristine dialogue and ambient sound, acting simultaneously as cinematographer and sound recordist.
Captured the moment John discussed his new piece “Ahlan wa Sahlan” (his contribution to the Beyond Words concert) while Oum presented the lyrical lines she had written for the work.
Managed on‑set logistics, shot‑list execution, and ensured seamless coordination between visual and audio elements to reflect the collaborative spirit of the project.

Delivered a RAW rushes via MASV highlighting the artistic exchange and reinforces the concert’s mission of unity, peace, and remembrance for the victims of the 15 March 2019 Christchurch tragedy.

The footage became a cornerstone of the promotional rollout for the third performance of Beyond Words, showcasing the cross‑cultural partnership and honoring the lives lost in Ōtautahi Christchurch.