SURREY - The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra recently released its 2015/2016 season of concerts, and classical music lovers might be surprised to know who's starring.
Of course, there'll be some Beethoven, Bach, Schumann and Mozart, but now concert-goers can expect a new guest: that "wascally wabbit" Bugs Bunny.The VSO, under the musical direction of Bramwell Tovey, brings Bugs Bunny at the Symphony II, as well as its Traditional Christmas Concert, Milhaud and Mozart to the Bell Performing Arts Centre in Surrey this season.On Nov. 16 at 8 p.m.,conductor Tovey and pianist Stephen Hough will lead the Warner Brothers-themed performance, featuring original scores from shows that starred Daffy Duck, Elmer Fudd, Pepe Le Pew and Wile E. Coyote. Ticket holders will be treated to classics such as "What's Opera, Doc?", "The Rabbit of Seville" and "Rhapsody Rabbit".Also coming to the Bell Performing ArtsCentre in 2015 is the VSO's Traditional Christmas Concert, scheduled between Dec. 10 and 20, hosted by Christopher Gaze, conducted by Gordon Gerrard and featuring UBC Opera Ensemble.The orchestra, now in it's 97th season, hits the venue again on Jan. 25 and Feb. 22, 2016.Other shows for the 2015/2016 season that won't be coming to Surrey includePeking Dreams, Bollywood: The Spirit of India, A Halloween Spectacular and the London Drugs VSO pops series, which will feature music from James Bond films, and themes from Game of Thrones, Monty Python's Flying Circus and Mad Men.Subscriptions to the VSO season can be purchased by calling 604-876-3434, or online at Vancouversymphonyorchestra.ca. Single tickets will be available for purchase in August. Those under 30 can grab the TD All-Access Pass, giving up to two $15 tickets to any eligible concert.