Zoo Contact:  Kyle Shepherd
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
(O) 502-238-5331 (C) 502-744-5639  

The Louisville Zoo and the Louisville Orchestra are joining forces once again to bring back the ROARchestra, with two special concerts set for this summer. After last year’s sold-out success, this cherished family-friendly event returns for its second consecutive year inviting audiences to experience a wild symphony under the stars on Saturdays, July 5 and 19.

The first concert on July 5 kicks off with Teddy Abrams conducting The Spirt of America featuring iconic works that reflect the heart and soul of American Culture. Music will include Copland’s vibrant El Salón México and Carlos Simon’s stirring The Block, a tribute to Black American life. Rounding out the evening will include John William’s themes for Jurassic Park and Star Wars.  All concluding with a thunderous finale of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.

Then on July 19, saddle up for a rousing western-themed musical journey, celebrating the spirt of the American frontier. Under the baton of beloved Roarchestra Maestro Bob Bernhardt, this high-energy program opens with John Williams’ Cowboys Overture, setting the stage for Copland’s iconic Dance Episodes from Rodeo, including the beloved Saturday Night Waltz and crowd-favorite Hoedown. Adding authentic country color, Suede Saddle brings vocal harmonies and traditional western instrumentation — including fiddle, accordion and upright bass — for a foot-stomping good time. The evening concludes with Rossini’s William Tell Overture.

“Last year’s return of ROARchestra was a smashing success, thanks to beautiful weather and powerful music,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “Teddy Abrams and the talented musicians created a magical night under the stars — truly the wildest concert in town! We’re thrilled to partner again with the Louisville Orchestra to carry this treasured tradition into a bold, exciting future.”

“ROARchestra brings together two of Louisville’s most iconic institutions to create something truly special for our community,” says Nathaniel Koch, Louisville Orchestra Interim Executive Director. “By expanding to two concerts this year and welcoming back our Principal Pops Conductor Bob Bernhardt, who led ROARchestra for many years alongside Teddy Abrams, we’re deepening this partnership and offering more families the chance to experience world-class performances in a fun, accessible setting.”

The Zoo grounds open at 7 p.m., allowing guests to explore the Zoo or get settled in the Oasis Field.

Tickets will go on sale, starting Thursday, May 29 at noon on the Zoo’s website at Louisvillezoo.org/roar.

Adults — $30**, Children 3-11 — $15, Children 2 and under — Free, Parking is included with admission.

**Adult Tickets will increase to $35 the week prior to each performance.

Concessions, including adult libations, will be available for purchase. This event is expected to sell out; the Zoo and the Orchestra encourage guests to get their tickets early at louisvillezoo.org/roar.

***

About the Louisville Orchestra 

The Louisville Orchestra was created in 1937 and sprung up in a time of need, just after the great flood and in the wake of the depression. Robert Whitney was invited to conduct the newly established orchestra, known then as the Louisville Philharmonic, and arrived from Chicago that same year. In its formation, the goal was to create a new model for the American symphony orchestra, as it was conceived through an ambitious effort that emphasized innovation through the commissioning, performance, and recording of new works by contemporary composers. The Louisville Orchestra garnered international critical acclaim, became the first orchestra to establish a record label, and cemented a place in history for its contribution to contemporary classical music. In its first two decades, the Louisville Orchestra commissioned/recorded up to 52 new works annually and ultimately created 150 vinyl recordings (LPs) of more than 450 works. The Louisville Orchestra continues to be recognized as a cornerstone of the Louisville performing arts community. Music Director Teddy Abrams has helmed the Louisville Orchestra since 2014, and the Louisville Orchestra has returned to its origins of commissioning new music and recording, having released two albums under the prestigious Decca Gold label. A wide variety of immersive and innovative concert performances and educational programming continue to receive national attention. Recent press coverage includes articles and mentions in The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and CBS Sunday Morning. Accolades include three invitations to perform at Carnegie Hall; the Leonard Bernstein Award for Excellence in Educational Programming; the League of American Orchestras 2019 Ford Musician Awards for Excellence in Community Service; and 19 American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) awards for adventurous programming in use of contemporary music.

About the Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top, non-profit, paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), a global alliance of zoos and aquariums.

# # #