Story Structure — 3 Plot Phases
Under Siege
Leningrad endures brutal Nazi blockade as Shostakovich begins composing his Seventh Symphony.
Key Events
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Siege Begins — Nazi forces begin siege of Leningrad Characters: Printing house worker
Location: Leningrad
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Symphony Completion — Shostakovich completes his Seventh Symphony Characters: Printing house worker, Dmitri Shostakovich
Location: Composer's studio
Musical Resistance
The symphony score reaches Radio House, and rehearsals begin despite extreme conditions and constant bombardment.
Key Events
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Symphony Completion — Shostakovich completes his Seventh Symphony Characters: Printing house worker, Dmitri Shostakovich
Location: Composer's studio
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Score Transport — Score transported to Radio House Characters: Printing house worker
Location: City streets
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Rehearsals Begin — Orchestra begins rehearsals despite shortages Characters: Printing house worker, Orchestra members
Location: Radio House
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Bombardment Continues — City faces constant bombardment Characters: Printing house worker, Radio staff
Location: Radio House
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Hitler's Plan — Hitler plans August 9th seizure Characters: Printing house worker
Location: Radio House
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Final Rehearsal — Orchestra prepares for premiere Characters: Printing house worker, Orchestra members
Location: Bombed Radio House
The Defiant Performance
Against all odds, the diminished orchestra performs the symphony on August 9th, broadcasting hope across the nation.
Key Events
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Final Rehearsal — Orchestra prepares for premiere Characters: Printing house worker, Orchestra members
Location: Bombed Radio House
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Premiere Day — Historic performance begins Characters: Printing house worker, Orchestra members, Radio staff
Location: Radio House
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Symphony Broadcast — Symphony broadcast across Soviet Union Characters: Printing house worker, Orchestra members
Location: Radio House
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Symbol of Resistance — Symphony becomes symbol of resistance Characters: Printing house worker, Citizens of Leningrad
Location: Leningrad
During the brutal siege of Leningrad in the Second World War, musicians are able to stage a public performance of the Seventh Symphony by Dmitry Shostakovich.
