Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra to Return Following Decade Absence

On August 24, 2017, The Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra is returning to the stage at The Richard Macdonald Art Gallery presented by Cirque du Soleil, following a 13-year public absence. New owner, Shea Arender, will join the Orchestra for a performance entitled "The King Symphonic - The Music of Elvis Presley" with a portion of proceeds benefiting "Volunteers in Medicine of Southern Nevada."

This performance will mark the triumphant return of the orchestra which had significant presence in the Las Vegas throughout the 1980's and 1990's. The legendary Engelbert Humperdinck is one of the many stars that the Orchestra supported during the height of their popularity.

Mr. Arender, who played Johnny Mercer in 'The Harold Arlen Broadway Musical,' and produced 'The Wonderful Wizard of Song: The Music of Harold Arlen,' hopes for the orchestra to become a symphonic pop institution, and an alternative to the Las Vegas Philharmonic Orchestra, which performs exclusively classical music. Conducted by Steve Rawlins, who composed the Grammy and Emmy award presentation music, this summer performance will be the first of a series of scheduled performances for 2017 where the pop hits of Elvis Presley will be re-imagined with a classical overtone by this chamber ensemble.

"These are new beginnings with the Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra," Mr. Arender said. "Over 40-million visitors come to Vegas to get an ultimate experience, and by re-launching the Orchestra, we are providing a new opportunity for both residents and tourists to experience a slice of culture in a fun pop environment."

Mr. Arender began his career as a singer, performing songs of the Great American Songbook as well as the Classics. He was influenced by greats including Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ricky Nelson, Bobby Darin, and of course Elvis Presley. After 'The Harold Arlen Broadway Musical' opened, the Wizard of Oz composer's son, Sam Arlen invited Mr. Arender to assume the position of Associate Producer of Sam Arlen's archives, where he to this day holds the role of Executive Producer.

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