Windsor Symphony Orchestra with a Twist

By Abass Wali

Two forms of art were combined into one show at the Capitol Theatre.

After two years of collaborating with HNM Dance Company the first show combining classical music and dance was performed.

Robert Franz is the conductor of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. He said when he met with HNM’s choreographer when he first started the job three years ago. Franz said he was inspired by his dancers, so he asked him if he would like to partner with him to put on a show for the public.

“It’s taken us a few years to find the right piece and put the choreography together,” said Franz. “Now here we are. Tonight is the finale of nearly two years of working together.”

Shelley Sharpe is the communications manager for the WSO. She said their season goes from early September to early May. Sharpe said they have an average of about 300 shows.

Sharpe said it is a frustrating process because their music director brings forward ideas. They have an artistic planning committee made up of musicians, music professionals, such as professors from the community, and board members of the community who have an understanding and knowledge of music.

“They work through the season and some of Robert’s suggestions. Then we take those suggestions and match them with practical things like where the budget is and the number of musicians required,” said Sharpe. “You get a little bit from this and a little bit from that and in the end we have a season presented that we think is going to match well with what the orchestra is good at performing.”