Boulder Philharmonic "Fright Fantastique" Concert October 30, 2009

Don’t miss the scary and hilarious Frankenstein!! by HK Gruber. An almost indescribable mash-up of childish poetry, political allegory, cabaret parody and slapstick humor, this contemporary piece is a collection of comedic songs that expands the orchestra through the use of toy instruments, popping paper bags and whirling hoses. Soloist Timothy Jones has a dramatic singing role that channels both heroes and villains (James Bond, Goldfinger, Dracula, John Wayne, Batman and Robin, Frankenstein, Superman and more).

The bewitching Symphonie fantastique by Hector Berlioz, a tour de force for orchestra and conductor, is perhaps the most forward-looking symphonic piece of all time. Its incredible orchestral details were just not done in his day. With a macabre connection in the last two movements–including a march to the scaffold and a dream of a witches’ sabbath–plus ghoulish, cackling witch laughter in the last movement, it’s a perfect complement to the spooky Halloween weekend.

Official Website: http://www.boulderphil.org