The Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra takes over Whataburger Field for the annual Pops in the Park concert Saturday, April 25. Complete with fireworks and light show, the event begins at 7:30 p.m. Courtesy photo
The infield of Whataburger Field becomes a stage for the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra Saturday, April 25, as the annual Pops in the Park unfolds beneath the stars, the lights of the Harbor Bridge and a burst of fireworks.
The LED lights that outline the Harbor Bridge are choreographed to a 90-minute musical program, which begins at 7:30 p.m. The program ends with a dazzling fireworks display.
“The ballpark is a beautiful location for this event,” said Robert Reed, executive director of the orchestra. The opportunity to play before a boisterous crowd of thousands is not something the symphony gets to do every day, he added.
“Our musicians feel like rock stars,” Reed said. “They are being projected live on the jumbotrons while thousands of people are giving them instant feedback. You don’t usually get that kind of energy when you play in a theater.”
As the biggest fundraiser of the year for the orchestra, Pops in the Park is expected to draw nearly 7,000 people to Whataburger Field. Tickets are an affordable $10 for adults and $5 for students. Kids 12 and under are free.
“One of the things we love about this event, is that there’s no concern that people feel this is too expensive,” Reed said. “It’s cheaper than going to the movies and it’s really a fun event.”
Musical pieces wrapped around the theme of “Oil Wells and Sea Shells” include songs from the movie "Magnificent 7," a medley from Looney Tunes cartoons as well as old favorites, "When the Saints Go Marching In," "Turkey in the Straw" and "Deep in the Heart of Texas."
“The pieces are upbeat music to get your blood flowing,” Reed said.
Pops in the Park began four years ago as a one off event, Reed explained. It was originally held in honor of he Coastal Bend Community Foundation’s challenge to create a fun arts project for its 30th anniversary. The event was so popular, the symphony decided to keep it going. That wish became a reality when Wells Fargo Bank asked to be its main sponsor. The event grows in popularity each year.
“Pops in the Park is unique in this community,” Reed said. “People enjoy being outside and eating turkey legs and funnel cakes like at a carnival. You can dress casually and not worry about whether or not your kids are being perfectly still. It is one of the big cultural events in the city each year and we are thrilled to be a part of it.”
General admission tickets and reserved seats are available through the Whataburger Field/Hooks Box Office at 361-561-HOOK or at www.ticketreturn.com.
