UNLV symphony orchestra to perform favorite Halloween classics

Holly Golightly, Dracula, Legolas from "The Lord of the Rings," Capt. Jack Sparrow from "Pirates of the Caribbean" and Marilyn Monroe are among a cast of characters slated to take the stage at UNLV's Halloween Spooktacular beginning at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at the Artemus Ham Concert Hall, 4505 S. Maryland Parkway.

The symphony/orchestra performance will feature students dressed to resemble their favorite fictional character while playing classical music with specific Halloween undertones.

"All of the music has been chosen and suited to the subject of Halloween," said Taras Krysa, director of orchestras at UNLV. "Each piece has that feeling that goes with the evening: mystery, intrigue, magic or horror."

The evening will feature classics such as "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," most widely known among children as the Mickey Mouse wizard song.

"This is an opportunity to expose the audience, many of (whom) will be children, I'm sure, to music that they are familiar with on some level," Krysa said. "This will open the door to enjoying other types of classical music. Plus, it's just plain fun."

The concert will feature 85 members of the symphony/orchestra, including freshman Courtney Waldron.

"I'm really excited because I think that it's going to be a really fun evening," Waldron said. "I think that it will generate a broader interest than just what people are hearing. Kids will be excited to hear songs that they recognize, and I'm sure some adults will be just as excited."

The evening also will feature an audience costume contest with prizes.

"So many people don't know what to do with themselves on this holiday," Krysa said. "This is a unique way to spend the evening taking in some culture and staying out of trouble. It will be an entertaining and spooktacular way to spend this Halloween."

The program will last just under two hours. General admission is $10. Seniors and military personnel tickets can be purchased for $8. For more information, call 895-3011.