SANDPOINT – The Spokane Symphony Orchestra had no trouble captivating its audience Thursday evening during its performance, “On Broadway,” at War Memorial Field during The Festival at Sandpoint picture perfect opening night.

The “Red Carpet” was stretched out for all who entered the gates Thursday evening. Those of age were treated to champagne to toast the opening of the new Festival season.

The orchestra’s timeless classics and medleys set the stage for fun and memories as conductor, Gary Sheldon, led the evening’s performances including patchwork pieces of sounds from Gershwin’s “Porgy and Bess” and George M. Cohan – the great American song and dance man who spent 56 of his 64 years on the stage.

“Some of our Broadway composers are classical composers as well,” Sheldon said.

Marvin Hamlisch’s “Anatomy of Peace” sung by the Festival Youth Chorale, and soloed by Megan Curran, seemed to touch the souls of listeners – bringing a sense of solemn to us all.

Hamlisch’s “A Chorus Line Medley” brought energy and festivity to the atmosphere, as selections from “West Side Story”, “A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum”, “Music Man”, “My Fair Lady”, “Kiss Me Kate”, “Gypsy”, “Evita” and “Phantom Of The Opera” were sung.

The Festival crowd had no trouble tuning their ears to the magical sounds and talents of vocalists Jon Brownell, Amy Craven, Joni Dirks and the “larger than life” William Rhodes who carried the crowd through the uplifting “Fiddler on the Roof”.

The Spokane Symphony Orchestra is conducted by Maestro Gary Sheldon. His energy and courtliness never fail to achieve an interesting balance of familiar masterpieces.

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