Mesa Community College choir members from three ensembles will join together to participate in Video Games Live at the Mesa Arts Center on April 7. 

Video Games Live combines the theatrics of a rock concert, the power of a full orchestra and the visuals of video games. Created by video-game composers Tommy Tallarico and Jack Wall, the show features video footage, music arrangements, synchronized lighting, solo performers, electronic percussion and live action, all used to create an immersive video-game experience.

Glenn Bennett, director of Choral Activities at MCC’s Red Mountain Campus, is preparing students from the Sun Valley Chorale, the Red Mountain Choir and Cantilena to be featured as the choral part of the orchestra. Bennett uses the event as an incentive for students to work hard throughout the year.

Skyler Turnage, 20, an MCC music major and avid video game player, said the chance to play in the event is one of the reasons he chose the class and the college.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, to play with a world-renowned orchestra,” Turnage said.  “It’s not something that would be possible at other schools.”

The three choirs are not limited to 20-something vocalists. The Sun Valley Chorale consists of members in their early 40s and Cantilena has professional musicians in their late 40s.  All are enthused about the event.

“This event is bringing generations together with one common project,” said choir member Carol Schroeder.  “We get to network people with great talent and weave them into one great choral group to bring music alive.”

Schroeder said the event gives students a glimpse into the professional world.  She’s fascinated by the craftsmanship that brings the music and technology together.

For MCC student Lindsay Handley, 26, the event has personal meaning.

“Growing up with a brother who has slight Asperger’s syndrome, I discovered video games were something we could do together,” Handley said. 

She said she particularly enjoys the music from The Legend of Zelda.

“A lot of people don’t realize how the music is made,” Handley said.  “When they see this, it really ignites the passion in their belly to want to be a part of the creative process.”

Special events surround the show, including a pre- and post-show festival.  Guests will enjoy interactive game demos, prizes, a costume contest, game competitions and a meet-and-greet with top game composers and designers.

When: 7:30 p.m., Thursday, April 7.

Where:  Ikeda Theater, Mesa Arts Center, Mesa.

Tickets: $52/$37, visit:

http://www.mesaartscenter.com/index.php/performances/performinglive/videogameslive

for more information.

Please direct inquiries to Sally Mesarosh at mesarosh@mesacc.edu .  IA website:  www.mc.maricopa.edu/ia.