One iconic band. One legendary concert film. One unforgettable night with a rock ’n’ roll legend.
On Friday, Oct. 30, Chico Performances brings Stop Making Sense, the groundbreaking Talking Heads concert film, to the big screen at Laxson Auditorium. But this isn’t just a movie night. Talking Heads founding member Jerry Harrison will be there in person, sharing stories and answering audience questions about one of the most celebrated concert films ever made.
For music lovers, Talking Heads fans and anyone who appreciates a great live performance, this is a rare chance to experience music history with one of the musicians who helped create it.
The Concert Film That Changed Everything
Directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Jonathan Demme, Stop Making Sense captured Talking Heads at their creative peak during a series of performances at Hollywood’s Pantages Theater in December 1983.
The film begins with frontman David Byrne alone onstage, armed with an acoustic guitar and a boombox. One by one, the musicians join him, building toward a spectacular full-band performance bursting with infectious rhythms, inventive choreography and unforgettable music.
Featuring beloved Talking Heads songs like “Psycho Killer,” “Burning Down the House,” “Once in a Lifetime” and “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody),” the film delivers a concert experience unlike any other.
More than four decades later, Stop Making Sense remains a landmark in music and cinema, widely regarded as one of the greatest concert films of all time.
A Special Evening With Jerry Harrison
What makes this Chico screening especially exciting is the opportunity to hear directly from Jerry Harrison, Talking Heads keyboardist and guitarist, who will host the evening.
Harrison will introduce the film and return afterward for a discussion and audience Q&A, offering a firsthand perspective on the music, the band and the making of this extraordinary concert film.
It’s an opportunity few fans ever get: watching a legendary performance and then hearing the stories behind it from someone who was onstage.
Experience Stop Making Sense on the Big Screen
Newly restored in 4K for its 40th anniversary, Stop Making Sense looks and sounds better than ever.
Whether you’ve been listening to Talking Heads since the ’80s or are discovering their music for the first time, there’s something special about experiencing these songs on the big screen with an audience of fellow music lovers. And even the film lovers will be there — Chico Cinema Club is planning to show up, too!
And with Halloween just around the corner, there’s no better excuse to break out your biggest suit and celebrate one of rock’s most wonderfully unconventional bands.
Don’t Miss This One-Night-Only Event
STOP MAKING SENSE: A Film by Jonathan Demme and Talking Heads
Friday, Oct. 30 | 7:30 p.m.
Laxson Auditorium, Chico State
Tickets: $36-$56
Featuring a special live appearance and audience Q&A with Talking Heads’ Jerry Harrison.
Get Your Tickets to Stop Making Sense
One night. One legendary film. And a chance to hear from a musician who helped make it all happen.