ROCKING THE SUMMER: QUEEN'S MUSIC TAKES CENTER STAGE AT THE HOBBY CENTER

By Kathleen Coleman, Arts Editor

Audiences experienced an electrifying night on Saturday as they danced in their seats and sang along to their favorite Queen songs with the Houston Symphony. Creating a rock concert atmosphere, audience members waved their flashlights to the music. The Houston Symphony, with the power of a full rock band, performed a set list of Queen's iconic hits, capturing the spirit of rock and roll and the opera-infused song "Bohemian Rhapsody." It was a feel-good night suitable for all ages.

Guest conductor Brent Havens, accompanied by rock vocalist Mig Ayesa, returned to Houston to lead the mesmerizing program, featuring fan favorites like "Somebody to Love" and "Bohemian Rhapsody." Queen, an English rock band formed in the 1970s, dominated popular culture and became one of the world's best-selling recording and concert acts. With record sales estimated in the hundreds of millions, Queen was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018. Their music, with its classical influences woven into progressive rock anthems like "Bohemian Rhapsody," is exceptionally well-suited for symphony orchestras.

Don't miss the opportunity to attend the Houston Symphony's performance of John Williams's epic score for Star Wars: A New Hope in

Concert, taking place on Friday, July 28, and Saturday, July 29. Alongside the live orchestra, the Symphony will screen the iconic 1977 American film directed by the award-winning George

Lucas, bringing the film's captivating soundtrack to life. Star Wars: A New Hope is regarded as one of the most influential films in cinema history. It launched the famous movie franchise, introduced the world to talented actors such as Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher, and revolutionized the art of storytelling in motion pictures. The film's groundbreaking special effects and the restoration of film scores to their rightful place as crucial storytelling elements forever changed the landscape of Hollywood.

To purchase tickets and obtain more information, please call 713.224.7575 or visit houstonsymphony.org/starwars. For details regarding the Hobby Center and parking, please visit https://www.thehobbycenter.org/ visit/parking-directions/. Attendees are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Star Wars characters, such as Han, Luke, Leia, and company, and explore the lobby for photo opportunities. Moreover, adults in the audience can savor unique Star Wars-themed cocktails. Enhance your experience by dining at the Diana American Grill before or after the performances.