The Owensboro Symphony is gearing up for a night of nostalgia as it presents its 37th annual Concert on the Lawn on Saturday. Music Director and Conductor Troy Quinn will lead the symphony in a special program titled “TV Classics,” featuring beloved television theme songs.
U.S. Bank has sponsored the free event since its inception in 1987, while Kentucky Wesleyan College’s front lawn has always offered the backdrop. The symphony’s chief executive officer, Gwyn Payne, said picnicking will begin at 5:30 p.m., with the concert slated for 7 p.m.
In a new twist for this year’s concert, some musical selections will be paired with video clips on a big screen. Quinn said the event also offers attendees a chance to experience the full theme songs as they were initially composed and in their entirety.
“This year’s concert will be filled with nostalgia,” Quinn said. “Everyone will hear something they know, from Dallas and Magnum P.I. to The Flintstones and Star Trek. There are thousands of TV themes out there, and we’ve picked some of the most iconic ones. This will be a fun and interactive experience for everyone.”
Payne said the event will feature more food trucks than ever, encouraging families to bring lawn chairs and blankets. For those who prefer a more structured setting, tables, and meals catered by Moonlite Bar-B-Que can be reserved in advance. A table with chairs and dinner for eight is available for $400, while a table and chairs with no meal can be reserved for $200. Individual meals without seating are priced at $25 per person.
Attendees who reserve tables are also invited to participate in a table decorating contest, with this year’s theme centered around TV classics.
“We’re excited to see what people come up with,” Payne said. “The Concert on the Lawn is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with several activities for children. U.S. Bank will host several games and activities for kids, making it an event that the whole family can enjoy.”
Payne added that a tent will be available for young and aspiring musicians to visit and learn about the instruments and the orchestra.
In addition to the Owensboro event, the symphony is taking the TV Classics concert to Madisonville at the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts on Friday. This ticketed performance will benefit the center’s programming.
Quinn also has a couple of surprises for the audience, including some vocal performances and maybe even a few film clips.
The Owensboro Symphony’s Concert on the Lawn has been a cherished tradition since 1987. It marks both the end of summer and the beginning of a new symphony season. With a 75-piece orchestra and over 20 musical selections, Quinn said this year’s event promises to be one of the most memorable yet.
“Television and movie scores are near and dear to our heart and programming,” Quinn said. “This is a fun concert for the entire family. There is so much accessibility to the musicians because there is no barrier to the orchestra. It’s a relaxed environment, and we encourage people to come and experience it in person.”
For more information and to reserve tables, visit the Owensboro Symphony website or call 270-684-0661.
