The Woodlands Symphony Orchestra (WSO) will open its eleventh season on the main stage of The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion with a performance of “Once Upon a Symphony.” Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for this free concert (no tickets required), and the show begins at 7:30 p.m.
“We are honored to return to The Woodlands Pavilion Main Stage to open our ‘Storybook Season,’” said WSO Artistic Director Darryl Bayer. “Fairy tales are not just stories for children; they are an inspiration to us all. For this concert—and throughout the season—we invite our community to join your Woodlands Symphony on a magical journey full of fantasy and adventure.”
As with every good fairy tale, it all begins “once upon a time”—or in this case, “Once Upon a Symphony.” This family-friendly concert is packed with stories that have inspired generations, including classical and popular music selections from: “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Phantom of the Opera,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Lord of the Rings,” “Hook,” “The Chronicles of Narnia,” “Scheherazade,” Disney’s “Tangled,” “The Sound of Music,” and “The Wizard of Oz.”
Making her WSO debut is talented female vocalist and rising star Vanessa Hunter. Hunter will perform alongside the orchestra for “Climb Every Mountain” from “The Sound of Music,” “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from “The Wizard of Oz,” and “When Will My Life Begin” from “Tangled.” Maestro Bayer will return to the podium to conduct the WSO and will be joined by guest conductor Clarence Frank, who is also principal cellist.
The concert immediately follows one of the Pavilion’s most-loved educational events, “Hats Off to Reading.” Each composition performed is specially tied to a timeless classic book adapted as a play, musical, or movie with an iconic soundtrack. Prior to the concert, students will have a chance to meet storybook characters, craft personal bookmarks, and even pick up a free book of their choice.
“Reading—like music—inspires wonder, creativity and learning, especially in kids,” Bayer shared. “We look forward to inviting The Woodlands community to step into a world where imagination knows no bounds and every dream comes true.”
This free fine-arts performance is made possible by ongoing support from The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Howard Hughes, and generous donations from The Woodlands Symphony’s loyal fans. For information on other upcoming performances and to make a tax-deductible donation, visit the www.woodlandssymphony.org.
