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Arcadia Weekly Jul 21, 2015
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Popular Concert Mingles the ‘Best’ Music From the Stage
People throughout the Southland are invited to experience the magic that is the California Philharmonic and Maestro Victor Vener during “Phantom/Les Miz,” the highly-anticipated concert that combines some of Broadway’s greatest music with classical masterpieces. It takes place Saturday, July 25, at Santa Anita Park. The concert will thrill audiences again next weekend during a matinee performance on Sunday, Aug. 2, at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Among the many people looking forward to attending both concerts are the special guests: Broadway stars Tracy Miller Schell and Darren Ritchie, both of whom will be making their California Philharmonic debut.
Tracy Miller Schell. – Courtesy Photo
“I’m so looking forward to the performance at Santa Anita racetrack because it’s outside and it has such a magical feeling to it – and because it’s outside, my little ones get to go! This will be the first time they actually see me sing in public. It will be much different than seeing Mommy sing in the kitchen,” said Tracy, who is most excited to perform songs from Les Misérables, a show she counts among her favorites. “And Walt Disney Concert Hall is stunning and an amazing stage to perform on. I’m so appreciative to be part of this experience with Cal Phil and Victor, who is incredibly sweet and talented.”
Tracy, whose work spans from performing in Hairspray on Broadway to Julio Iglesias’ world tour to Les Misérables in Europe, is also looking forward to partnering with Darren Ritchie, “one of her favorite people to work with.”
And the feeling is mutual.
Darren Ritchie. – Courtesy Photo
“Tracy and I did Dracula on Broadway together and have done concerts and readings as well. She is not only a tremendous talent, but a great friend,” echoed Darren, who is especially eager to sing “Music of the Night” from Phantom of the Opera and “Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables. “I am humbled and beyond excited to perform at both of these awesome venues. The best part is that we will be sharing these wonderful songs with the orchestra and the audience all together.”
Equally important to Darren, whose many credits include starring in Les Miz, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Little Shop of Horrors on Broadway, is his hope that “anyone who has ever wanted to sing will be inspired by the fact that if a little boy from South Carolina can do this on this level … so anything is possible!”
In addition to performing with the world-class orchestra, the talented duo will also be accompanied by the spectacular Cal Phil Chorale.
The captivating concert also features Berlioz’ electrifying Symphonie Fantastique and Fauré’s heavenly Requiem.
A California Philharmonic show is more than just a concert, it is an experience. Saturdays are always right on track with concerts at Santa Anita Park. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. to pre-concert dining including delicious gourmet food offerings available on-site, full bars and live jazz. Concerts begin at 7:30 p.m. Table and lawn seating on the lush green grass of Santa Anita Park’s infield are available, complete with the area’s best unobstructed view of the beautiful San Gabriel Mountains.
The California Philharmonic is supported by the California Philharmonia Society, a non-profit community benefit organization whose main emphasis at this time is to support the California Philharmonic.
To purchase tickets to attend the incomparable Victor Vener and his California Philharmonic concerts at Santa Anita Race Track, call (626) 304-0333 or www.calphil.com.
