By Shari Barrett
If you were raised on or near the beaches of Southern California, especially during ‘50s and ‘60s, no doubt the music of The Beach Boys is woven into the fabric of your life. For even though I was not a surfer, their music celebrating the joy in catching a wave, living your life having “Fun, Fun, Fun” getting around in your “Little Deuce Coupe,” makes me feel like the kid and teenager I once was when hanging out at local beaches in the summer was THE place to be!
In fact, The Beach Boys have been celebrated for over five decades as pioneers of the California sound, with their lush harmonies, uplifting spirit, and timeless appeal. To celebrate the launch of its 90th season, Long Beach Symphony will transport audiences back to the golden era of surf, sun, and sand with Endless Summer’s “Beach Boys Experience” on Saturday, September 28 by bringing the timeless music of The Beach Boys to life at the Long Beach Arena.
This special one-night concert will blend their classic rock harmonies and sounds with the rich, full orchestration that only a symphony can provide. And there’s no better way to culminate the 2024 summer than with this concert paying tribute to The Beach Boys’ groundbreaking contributions to music while showcasing the orchestral arrangements that bring new life to their classic songs.
Under the baton of Morihiko Nakahara, Endless Summer will deliver a magical evening of music that captures the essence of Southern California’s most beloved local band, offering a symphonic journey through The Beach Boys’ greatest hits, including chart-toppers “Good Vibrations,” “Surfin’ USA,” “California Girls,” and “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” It’s the music that defined a generation which will inspire many in the audience to get up and dance!
“The renowned harmonies of The Beach Boys are present in this unique fusion of rock and symphony,” said Kelly Ruggirello, President of Long Beach Symphony. “Our audience will experience the music they love in a new and powerful way while enjoying picnicking and dancing, honoring The Beach Boys’ enduring legacy.”
Endless Summer’s “Beach Boys Experience” will take place on Saturday, September 28 at the Long Beach Arena, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach 90802. Doors open at 6pm for indoor picnicking. Audience members can bring their own food and libations or pre-order for table delivery at https://longbeachsymphony.org/dining/ The concert begins at 7:30 p.m., with dance floors set up at the sides of the stage. So, bring your dancing shoes and smooth beach vibes!
Tickets for this concert start at $35. The full Pops 5-concert series subscription starts at $104 and includes access to 50% off parking, exchangeable tickets, and a dining discount card. For more info, visit https://aabn.short.gy/QIs5qo or call at (562) 436-3203, ext. 1. The best seats go first, as do those for subscribers, so secure your tickets early!
Long Beach Symphony, founded in 1934 and celebrating its 90th anniversary, is a premier producer of live music in the greater Long Beach region and one of Southern California’s most renowned, professional regional orchestras offering a rich array of musical performances that inspire and engage audiences of all ages. With a commitment to artistic excellence and community outreach, Long Beach Symphony continues to be a leader in bringing world-class music to Southern California. For more information, visit https://longbeachsymphony.org.
Update to my The Hunchback of Notre Dame review in my 9/5/24 Stage Page column: Since writing my review, I have learned that The Nocturne Theatre in Glendale is ADA accessible, both in seating and restrooms. Patrons requiring those amenities need to request them when purchasing tickets, and enter through the accessible entrance behind the theatre building rather than climbing the stairs up to the front entrance. I sincerely apologize for the miscommunication. Learn more about the upcoming events at The Nocturne Theatre, including the Halloween-themed House of Spirits from October 4 through November 2, at https://thenocturnetheatre.com/
