Video Games Live is a show that has local orchestras play themes from video games.

It is a groundbreaking event that is entertaining audiences all over the world.

Pre-Show Entertainment at the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra’s Video Games Live! Event

Written by: Breanne Cursley

As I walked into the foyer of the Jack Singer Concert Hall I was amazed. Concert-goers of Video Games Live filled the room, leaving barely enough room for me to squeeze through. What were they all doing? I initially asked myself. But as I explored the room I realized that they were playing video games!

The latest and greatest games in the video game world were set up around the lobby. Games like Guitar Hero, Wii, SingStar were being enjoyed by people of all ages. As I ventured upstairs I discovered the Future Shop ‘Sound Lounge’ where people could play the latest Playstation 3 game, with the newest innovation in HD Surround Sound.

The pre-show festival also had contests. One was for a brand new Wii or Playstation, which was won by two, very excited, little boys. Another contest was a costume competition, which explained all the strangely-dressed people I had encountered. The costumes were very interesting and a man, dressed up as the character Link from the game Zelda, won.

Video Games Live is a traveling show that has local orchestras play the music to all types of video games – old and new – while video montages from the games are played on a large screen above the symphony. It is a groundbreaking event that has entertained audiences all over the world; from Italy to Australia and back to North America. For its Calgary shows, Video Games Live was sold out both nights!

It’s quite fascinating how the world of live orchestras is collaborating with something completely different to create something new, and exciting, that people enjoy – and that feeling of enjoyment was certainly evident at the pre-show festival. This production is quickly becoming a phenomenon, as it has brought some new world appeal to the forum of classical orchestras. By cross-pollinating in such a way, audiences are flocking to these events and Philharmonics around the world are showcasing their diverse palette.

Overall, I have to say the pre-show festival of Video Games Live was very enjoyable, and a very unique experience. I would recommend for anyone who has tickets to Video Games Live to go a bit early, because it really added to the whole show.