November 11th, 2024
Mankato — The Mankato Symphony Orchestra (MSO) is kicking off the holidays with a special concert on Sunday, December 8, 3PM in the Saint Peter High School Auditorium. The MSO concert, titled Bold North, features the popular Academy Award nominated film Snowman, based on Raymond Briggs’ classic book of the same title. The book is brought to life with a full orchestra performing Howard Blake’s beautiful soundtrack. The piece also features the much-loved song, Walking in the Air, which will showcase local boy soprano Lucas Chambers, a member of the Mankato Area Youth Choir.
In addition to Snowman, members of the Mankato Ballet will dance alongside the MSO in movements from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite. Finally, the world premiere exploration of Minnesota wildlife will round off the program. The premiere, titled Bold North, is a composition by local composer and photographer Benji Inniger. “I hope audiences will relish this showcase of the beautiful natural diversity of our home state and be inspired to go out and explore. I couldn’t be more excited and honored that Bold North will be introduced by my hometown orchestra,” expressed Inniger.
Free Snowman cookies and hot chocolate will be served at intermission. Handcrafted holiday gifts, including artisanal candles, ornaments, and wildlife photos will be available for purchase. Thanks to a sponsorship from the Community of Mapleton, this concert is also being offered at Maple River High School Auditorium on Saturday, December 7, 6:30PM. Community member and sponsor Kristin Duncanson states, “We are thrilled to host the MSO in Mapleton. The concert will be a wonderful way for families to kick off the winter holidays. Come and experience this fantastic group!”
Concert tickets to the Saint Peter High School performance may be purchased online at MankatoSymphony.org or by contacting the box office at 507-933-0441. Tickets are also available at the door on the day of the concert. Tickets to the Maple River High School concert may also be purchased at Kilty’s Market in Mapleton, or at the box office before the concert.