Attend the sixth annual Pops in the Park at Whataburger Field, Saturday, April 22. Courtesy photo
Live symphonic music in tune with a stunning fireworks display: the sixth annual Pops in the Park takes place on Saturday, April 22 at Whataburger Field in Corpus Christi.
For six years running, the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra has presented a music and fireworks spectacular on the home field of the Hooks AA minor league team.
“It started as an outreach event to allow more community access to symphonic music,” said Madeline Schmidt, Director of Development and Marketing for the symphony. “People come to relax and listen to our orchestra in a comfortable setting. Everyone can get into this and we make it more exciting by adding a fireworks show and a light up bridge show.”
The affordable ticket price and family friendly atmosphere is aimed at those who don’t go to the symphony’s regular subscription events. The strategy has worked. Pops in the Park has grown in attendance with each performance. Last year, it nearly sold out. This year, 7,000 concert-goers are expected for a sold out event.
This year’s theme is the Great American Road Trip. The 71 musicians will perform music that represents different parts of the United States. Songs like Deep in the Heart of Texas and New York, New York will take the audience on a trip around the country.
Conductor Lee Gwozdz should have no trouble adjusting to the unusual venue. Gwozdz was a former professional Sports Organist for the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball team. He specializes in pop symphonic concerts, bringing the community together through recognizable, sing-along style music.
Other entertainment on the concourse includes an Instrument Petting Zoo for the kids and a pre-show ceremony featuring performances by local students and bands.
The show begins at 7:30 p.m., but general admission seating is first-come, first-served so be sure to get there when the gates open at 6 p.m.
VIP ticket holders can join the party at 5:30 p.m., with food, drinks, a silent auction and seats offering a prime view of the field.
“The whole event is fun,” said Schmidt. “The way the field is designed, the sound is contained really nicely.”
General admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for students, and is free for children 12 and under. Reserved seating behind home plate costs $35 for adults, $25 for students and $15 for children 12 and under. Visit the website to learn about VIP packages, or call the symphony at (361) 883-NOTE for more information.
Whataburger Field is located at 734 E Port Ave in Corpus Christi.
