Summer season begins at the Mann Center

FAIRMOUNT PARK - June 17, 2012 (WPVI) -- It's time for another summer season at the Mann Center for the Performing Arts.

The Mann Center is the premier summer home for the Philadelphia Orchestra and the Fabulous Philadelphians are ready to kick off their first concert series of the season with fireworks, a big Broadway star and, of course, some Beethoven and Bach.

On June 27th, the Philadelphia Orchestra opens its summer season at the Mann with one of the world's most famous classical compositions, Beethoven's 9th Symphony and Bach's double violin concerto.

Catherine Cahill, President & CEO of The Mann Center said, "Xian Zhang will be making her conductorial debut and I said she because she is one of the leading female conductors on the international scene coming in, flying in internationally to join us with the great Philadelphia Singers and an all star cast from AVA, Philadelphia's own premiere vocal academy. "

On June 29th, it's a Tchaikovsky extravaganza, a Mann summer tradition: the 1812 overture with cannons booming onstage and fireworks exploding in the sky.

"What's particularly exciting about this program, is we are showcasing one of the Curtis institute's great young legends of tomorrow, Alexander Ullmann, a fantastic pianist, young pianist, who promises to delight." said Cahill.

On June 30th, Tony Award-winning actress, singer and songwriter Idina Menzel will join the orchestra. Her powerhouse performance 2 years ago was a highlight of the season.

Cahill added, "Of course, she is best known as, in her role as the witch in Wicked and of course she's on Glee, has an enormous following, incredible talented, beautiful singer, great entertainer. If you don't know Broadway, you'll be hooked after you see her. If you don't know classical music, you'll want to come back for more

For scheduling and ticket info, visit The Mann.

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music, fairmount park, lifestyle, 6abc loves the arts, karen rogers

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