‘Coco Live-to-Film’ concert comes to Reynolds Performance Hall 

CocoThe University of Central Arkansas’ Reynolds Performance Hall presents Disney Pixar’s “Coco Live-To-Film Concert” on Saturday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m.  

Featuring a screening of the complete film, Oscar® and Grammy®-winning composer Michael Giacchino’s musical score will be performed live by the 20-member Orquesta Folclórico Nacional de México.

Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Héctor (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Disney and Pixar’s Coco is directed by Lee Unkrich (Toy Story 3), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist Monsters University) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (Toy Story 3).

“Coco” is about family, connecting with loved ones and pursuing your dreams. And according to director Lee Unkrich, it’s all rooted in music.

“‘Coco’ has music in its DNA,” said Unkrich. “Music shapes the film. Some characters are musicians, while others want nothing to do with it.”

Coco orchestra

‘Coco’ orchestra

The Orquesta Folclórica Nacional de México of the Ballet Folclórico Nacional de México by Silvia Lozano, is a musical group that stands out for its ability to fuse pre-Hispanic instruments with instruments from the colonial era, thus creating a unique and distinctive sound that evokes the rich history and culture of Mexico.

This orchestra is made up of expert musicians who are highly trained in the interpretation of a wide variety of genres and styles of Mexican folk music, such as Mariachi music, Jarana music, Son music, and Huapango music, among others. In addition, their repertoire includes songs and instrumental pieces dating from pre-Hispanic and colonial times, which allows them to connect with the country’s historical and cultural roots.

Executive Director of Public Appearances Amanda Horton said, “This is a great opportunity to watch a movie with such a magical and inspiring tale of family and strength while experiencing a live traditional Mexican orchestra and a wonderful way to introduce children to the power of live music.” 

Tickets range from $30-$50 for adults and $10 for children/students. Tickets are on sale now and may be purchased at the Reynolds Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., online at uca.edu/reynolds or by calling UCA Ticket Central at (501) 450-3265 or toll-free at (866) 810-0012.