The Akron Symphony Orchestra is teaming up with local bookstores to spread holiday cheer to lovers of books and music. Now through Dec. 10, when parents peruse a children’s book at The Learned Owl (204 N. Main St., Hudson) or The Bookseller (39 Westgate Circle, Akron), they may find a voucher for a highly discounted family four-pack of tickets or even one of a few “golden tickets,” offering free entry to the symphony.
These tickets are for the Akron Symphony’s holiday concert, Home for the Holidays, Friday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at EJ Thomas Hall.
This particular concert, featuring the Akron Symphony, Akron Symphony Chorus, Gospel Meets Symphony Choir, Akron Youth Symphony and other community groups, is an excellent way to introduce children to the symphony, according to Heather Roszczyk, director of marketing and public relations for Akron Symphony. “This concert is perfect for starting a lifetime love of music. With music, dancers and singalongs, there is so much for children to enjoy.”
The music begins at 7:30 p.m., but ticketholders may arrive early for more festivities. Beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the EJ Thomas Hall lobby, children may enjoy milk and cookies made by the Symphony Guild members, take pictures with Santa, and cozy up for a holiday storytime. Children are also encouraged to arrive to the concert in their pajamas, in keeping with the holiday theme.
The discounted and free tickets will be hidden in holiday-themed children’s books inside the bookstores. “We are so fortunate to live in an area rich in the arts, and I can’t think of a more natural partnership than books and music,” says Kate Schlademan, owner of The Learned Owl in Hudson. “I’m really looking forward to working with and supporting the Akron Symphony Orchestra.”
The Akron Symphony thanks its sponsors, including media partners 89.7FM WKSU and Akron Life, Previews from the Podium sponsor, Audio-Technica, and the Ohio Arts Council, which helps fund Akron Symphony concerts with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans. For info, visit akronsymphony.org.
