Celebrate 88 Keys & 88 Years at Red Carpet Spectacular!

photo by Julia Kracke Photography

We’re rolling out the red carpet for the RPO’s 88th Season!

Get ready for an extraordinary evening as Jeff Tyzik ushers in the Pops season with the RPO’s annual Red Carpet Spectacular followed by The Music of Ray Charles concert in Kodak Hall. This gala event takes place on Friday, October 8 beginning at 5:30 pm.

The evening starts with a tour of the brand new Betty’s Café and the newly enhanced Ranlet Lounge, followed by the Wegmans Culinary Extravaganza in Cominsky Promenade at Eastman Theatre. Enjoy an array of hors d’oeuvres, an entree introducing a new Wegmans product, a sushi station, and desserts, with wines courtesy of Constellation Brands.

Ray Charles Robinson, Jr. – Ray Charles’ eldest son who has written a new book sharing reflections on life with his father – will make an appearance and give a pre-concert talk at 7:00 pm.

Then, trumpeter Herb Smith and other RPO musicians will led a New Orleans-style street parade down the red carpet and into Kodak Hall, joined by patrons and dignitaries, for the 8:00 pm concert.

Singer and keyboardist Ellis Hall – former lead singer with Tower of Power – has performed his Ray Charles tribute show with orchestras from the Kennedy Center to the Hollywood Bowl. You’ll hear some of your favorite Ray Charles classics, including "Georgia on My Mind," "Hit the Road, Jack," "Unchain My Heart," and "I Can’t Stop Loving You." He will be joined onstage by three female back-up singers. Use this link for a video clip of Ellis Hall singing "Georgia on My Mind."

This special event includes valet parking and a gift bag as well. Festive attire suggested. Reserve your tickets now by calling 454-2100. Click here for more information on the Red Carpet Spectacular.

(Note: The Music of Ray Charles concert repeats on Saturday, October 9 at 8:00 pm. For concert tickets and more information, click here.)