The Ontario Pops Orchestra strikes again! This time, the 50-musician orchestra under the baton of Ontario Pops Founder and Conductor Carlos Bastidas will present DANCE EXTRAVAGANZA, a concert featuring the music of Bruno Mars, Michael Jackson, Lord of the Dance, the hit musical Chicago, plus Romeo and Juliet and the popular tango “Por Una Cabeza” accompanied by live Irish, Tango, and ballet dancers.
When: Friday March 3, 2017
Where: Humber Valley United Church, 76 Anglesey Blvd in Toronto (North of the Islington Subway station).
Time: 8 PM
Tickets: $20 at the door or online at www.ontariopops.com
In only its second season, the Toronto-based Ontario Pops Orchestra has earned a reputation as a multi-generational group of professional and volunteer musicians who appreciate that today’s symphonic masters are those behind the famous music on television, in the movies and increasingly, video games. The Ontario Pops repertoire includes soundtracks like Pirates of the Caribbean, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Lean On Me, A Charlie Brown Christmas, plus beloved classics like Dvorak’s Symphony 9 “From The New World”, Mozart Symphony No. 40, Elgar’s Pomp and Circumstance, and Strauss’ rousing Radetzky March.
Founder Carlos Bastidas, originally from Colombia, is a showman both on the podium and as a music director. He does double duty as a Conductor of the Ontario Pops Orchestra and the Durham Chamber Orchestra in Ajax.
“I founded the Ontario Pops because I want to surprise and engage audiences with the popular and nostalgic music they love, can sing to, and makes them happy. What better way to give back to the community than that? And … we’re selling out!” said Carlos.
“Dance Extravaganza” will feature the Ontario Pops along with special guests from the Graham School of Irish Dance, the Swansea School of Dance, and the Rhythm and Motion Dance Studio. The concert will be hosted by Latin Radio personality Camila Gonzalez, a top 5 runner-up in the 2016 Miss Universe Canada competition.
