The Orchestra of Southern Utah presents a respite from the cold weather outside with its tropical-themed concert, “The Rhythm of the Sea,” on Feb. 25. Under the direction of Xun Sun, several pieces depicting nautical adventures and island themes will be played at 7:30 p.m. in the Heritage Center in Cedar City.
Feel the trade winds at your back as we sail along with a popular medley from “Pirates of the Caribbean,” composed by Hans Zimmer and Klaus Badelt. Then travel to Cuba with George Gershwin as he reminisces with his “Cuban Overture.” Inspired by the sights and sounds of Havana, this piece interweaves a catchy and lighthearted melody with traditional Caribbean rhythms.
Rimsky-Korsakov’s epic “Scheherazade” will be performed with talented violinist Katherine Lee Maxwell soloing. “Scheherazade” paints an exciting picture of the exotic orient from the perspective of 19th century Russia. Although kept purposefully vague, Korsakov took inspiration from fairy tales about figures such as Sinbad and Prince Ajib to craft this thrilling and beautiful symphonic poem.
“Polynesian Rhapsody,” an original composition by Jacob Lee, will be premiered. The piece incorporates two traditional Maori songs into the music and lyrics. The premiere will be accompanied by a choir directed by Jackie Riddle Jackson. The piece was commissioned by the Orchestra of Southern Utah. Jacob Lee is a Roy L. Halversen Young Artist Competition winner for “The Casey Jones Overture,” which the OSU performed last year.
The concert also includes a live performance from the Southern Utah University Polynesian Club dancers directed by Toanui Tawa. The Polynesian Club has been active for over 20 years at SUU, and the dancers come from many South Pacific nations. These exceptional dancers will transport you to the islands with both graceful and forceful choreography.
Tickets are available at the Cedar City Heritage Theater Box Office by calling (435) 865-2882, or visit heritagectr.org/. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students, and $30 for groups up to 6. Because evening concerts are recorded, it is requested that babies and children under the age of six not attend. Children over the age of six are welcome at all OSU concerts with adult supervision.
