Three fall quarter performances worth fitting into your schedule
By NATALIE SALTER — arts@theaggie.org
As we gear up for a brand new school year, the prospect of making the most out of it can be equally exciting and overwhelming. Between classes, clubs, jobs and going out with friends, it can be easy to miss events offered on campus during the fall. Whether you’re a first-year hoping to discover as much as you can or a returning student looking to make new memories, here’s a list of events you can add to this quarter’s calendar.
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” with Erotic Nightmares:
Autumn in Davis is especially exciting, and when you’re not picking up pumpkin-spiced pastries from the Coffee House or taking in the seasonal beauty downtown, you may feel inclined to pursue opportunities of the spookier variety. Luckily for you, UC Davis students annually deliver a rendition of a cult-classic Halloween tradition: a showing of the film “Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975) with a live shadowcast.
For those unfamiliar with this beloved October rite, the campus club Erotic Nightmares invites viewers to not only witness the film’s campy, musical fun, but be active participants in it. Frequent goers memorize chants and dances — volunteers from the crowd are invited to participate in challenges on stage and talented cast members dress up to gleefully reenact the film’s scenes. It’s a raunchy, hilarious and exciting display that is best enjoyed with friends.
Philharmonia Orchestra at Mondavi Center on Oct. 17:
If you’re looking for a performance with a little less shouting and dancing, a brief perusal of the Mondavi Center’s fall offerings may point you in the right direction. Incoming students are given a courtesy ticket to see one show at the Mondavi for free: an opportunity that you shouldn’t let pass you by.
The Mondavi hosts an array of performances each quarter, so it’s worth it to keep an eye on their selection year round. One exciting choice amongst this quarter’s musical performers is the Philharmonia Orchestra, a well-known musical ensemble whose career has spanned from old Hollywood film soundtracks to working with the 21st century singer-songwriter Laufey. Their performance is slated for Oct. 17 and is a must-see for any and all with a love for music.
UC Davis’ Video Game Orchestra:
Another must-see live musical performance — put on every quarter — comes from UC Davis students themselves. Taking a contemporary twist on the classic live ensemble, the Video Game Orchestra blends the digital and musical worlds to create a downright magical experience for all in attendance.
Though avid gamers will be especially delighted by this orchestra’s offerings, which cover hundreds of unique video games from across the genre, you don’t need to be one to appreciate the spectacle of the show. Beyond the music itself, there are collectible gifts on sale at each performance, and a raffle whose winner can choose a song to be performed the following quarter. Coming back every quarter is certainly worth it, as the orchestra picks a new theme each time — ranging from “Myths & Magic” to “A New Adventure Awaits” — with a slew of related video game soundtracks to match.
Of course, these events are only a select few of the countless number that are available every quarter. Even more can be discovered through clubs and campus communities, so, whether it’s your first year or your last, don’t pass up on connecting with other students who share your interests and passions — you may make some of your fondest memories in doing so.
Written by: Natalie Salter — arts@theaggie.org
