By Suzanne Wilson for Phoenix.org
Watch what happens when the Mesa Arts Center transforms into a “Star Trek” concert command center on April 3rd.
Photo by Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage
Celebrating 50 years of the time-honored sci-fi franchise, “Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage” will beam into the popular East Valley performing arts complex for a dazzling evening of scenes and symphony, according to “Star Trek’s” original Captain Kirk, William Shatner.
William Shatner
The lavish production features a live symphony orchestra performing some of the greatest music written for “Star Trek” while footage from the iconic TV and movie franchise is beamed onto a 40-foot wide screen in high definition.
Photo by Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage
The concert will be conducted by CineConcerts founder and producer Justin Freer, who has quickly become one of the most sought-after conductors of film music. His growing list of symphonic live-to-projection projects also include “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy, “The Godfather” and “Gladiator.”
Photo by Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage
“‘The Star Trek’ franchise has for many years been an important and meaningful part of our culture in so many ways,” Freer says. “This exciting concert experience, featuring the greatest music and visuals is perfect for music lovers, filmgoers, science fiction fans and anyone looking for an exciting and unique concert experience.”
Shatner, who will only appear in the concert via film footage, says “Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage” will not only leave fans feeling exhilarated but also educated about the role of music in film and television.
Photo by Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage
The concert tour launched in Florida in January, 2016 and will have performed in more than 100 cities around North America before concluding its run at the end of April.
It’s just one of a number of events commemorating “Star Trek’s” five decades on screen this year, an endurance Shatner credits to the series’ multi-generational fan base and the imaginative ways science fiction seeks to address our curiosity of the unknown.
Live long and prosper. “Star Trek” fans also have a new movie to look forward to in this golden anniversary year with the highly-anticipated theatrical release of “Star Trek Beyond” on July 22nd, 2016.
Catch “Star Trek: The Ultimate Voyage” 50th anniversary concert tour at Mesa Arts Center on Sunday, April 3rd, 2016. Tickets range from $35 to $75. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201 (480) 644-6500