On Saturday night, Oct. 17, The University of Tampa held its third annual Night at the Movies, focusing on the classics.
In conjunction with the Tampa Preparatory Symphonic Winds, the UT Wind Ensemble showcased well-known songs from all genres.
While it may not be your typical movie screening, this event covered multiple facets of the arts.
The ensemble brought the senses alive with stimulating movie montages playing overhead.
The evening began with a short performance from the Tampa Preparatory Symphonic Winds conducted by Lyle Manwaring.
Covering pieces from Steven Reineke and David Bobrowitz, the raw talent was electric and showcased the rich aptitude of the young musicians.
It was a great way to kick off the night.
Images of western movies like, “Wild Wild West,” lit up the screen behind the musicians, creating an atmosphere unlike any regular orchestra performance.
After a quick switch of musicians, the show continued with the UT Wind Ensemble and their rendition of the famous Rodgers and Hammerstein score, “The Sound of Music.”
Following the lead of conductor Dr. Jeff Traster, the ensemble showcased their skills while the audience sang along to their favorite tunes, transitioning the night into an interactive production.
The musicians played beautifully throughout the different pieces, from “Be Our Guest” from Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” to “Tara’s Theme” from “Gone With the Wind.”
One of the most spectacular parts of the night was when the lights went down, and the sides of the theater lit up with an image of the night sky.
The audience was soon flying through the air with “Superman,” passing by galaxies and over rooftops.
After seeing the third installment of this trilogy of sorts, I can only hope that a fourth is around the corner.