K-State Symphony Orchestra to bring ‘Home Alone’ to life with live concert, film screening
Manhattan's holiday season is getting a musical twist as the K-State Symphony Orchestra prepares to bring the beloved Christmas classic "Home Alone" to life. The orchestra will perform John Williams' iconic film score live alongside a screening of the movie at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 19 and 20 in McCain Auditorium.
Rachel Dirks, director of orchestral studies, joined Anna on Wildcat 91.9's "The Evening Drive" to discuss the upcoming performances, the preparation behind the production and what audiences can expect from this unique experience.
Unlike a traditional orchestra concert, Home Alone in Concert requires musicians to synchronize their performance with the film as it plays on a large screen. While the movie's dialogue and sound effects remain intact, the orchestra will perform the musical score in real time.
Dirks explained that the production presents a unique challenge for both the musicians and conductor. Using a specialized click track and visual cues, she must ensure the orchestra stays perfectly synchronized with the action on screen.
"There are so many musical hits in there that punctuate specific moments, when the paint can hits the face, that we have to be really on our game to hit that at the right moment," Dirks said.
Although Williams is known for his memorable scores in films like "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter," Dirks said the music in "Home Alone" offers something different. Rather than relying on large, recognizable themes, the score uses individual instruments to reflect characters, emotions and moments throughout the film.
The score also highlights instruments that audiences may not typically notice, including the bass clarinet, contrabassoon and tuba.
"I hope people can actually hear the really fun way John Williams explores the colors of different instruments," Dirks said.
The support of an anonymous donor who sponsored the entire event made the concert possible, and the project has been in development for approximately a year and a half. Dirks also spent time observing a film concert production at Indiana University to better understand the rehearsal process and the demands of conducting alongside a movie.
For K-State's student musicians, the opportunity offers valuable experience beyond a traditional symphony performance. Dirks explained that live film concerts have become increasingly popular among professional orchestras, making this production an opportunity for students to develop skills they may use in future performances.
The concert also marks a significant occasion for the university. According to Dirks, it may be the first time a university in Kansas has performed a John Williams film score live alongside its movie. The last time the K-State Symphony accompanied a film was approximately eight or nine years ago, when it performed music for a Charlie Chaplin silent film.
Beyond the technical challenges, Dirks hopes the concert will introduce new audiences to orchestral music in an approachable and entertaining way.
"This is a way for people to relate to the music that they've heard before, so there's a connection there," Dirks said.
She also emphasized the emotional impact of hearing Williams' score performed live, particularly during the film's more heartfelt moments. With the orchestra bringing the music to the forefront, audiences may discover details they have overlooked during previous viewings.
For K-State students, an anonymous donor is sponsoring 500 free tickets to the performances. Students must create an account through the McCain Auditorium box office system before visiting the box office Wednesday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. to claim a ticket. Dirks encourages students to secure their seats early, as availability is limited.
General admission tickets are also available through the McCain Auditorium box office, by phone or online.
As the orchestra prepares for the performances, Dirks hopes the event will bring together K-State students, families and the Manhattan community through a shared holiday tradition.
"Please don't spend those nights 'home alone,'" Dirks said. "You just come on down to McCain on Nov. 19 and 20 and join us."
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