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NEWS
Symphony explores Irish roots
The Huntington Symphony Orchestra performs "A Celtic Celebration" featuring flutist Wendell Dobbs on Saturday, March 16, 2013, at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center in Huntington.
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HUNTINGTON -- Hundreds of people got into the Celtic spirit Saturday night during the latest performance from the Huntington Symphony Orchestra at the Keith-Albee Performing Arts Center.
The show, titled "A Celtic Celebration," featured flutist Wendell Dobbs, a professor at Marshall University's College of Fine Arts, as well as Irish step dancers.
The show was not only an opportunity for symphony patrons to get into the holiday spirit, but also, as always, they had the chance to enjoy quality orchestral music in their own backyard, said T. Hogan Haas, executive director of the orchestra.
"This really is just the thing to get people into the Irish spirit and feeling green -- in a good way," said Haas. "We're excited to have the guest dancers and to be showcasing Wendell Dobbs, who already performs with the symphony, because what they have to share will provide a unique experience for everyone who comes."
Dobbs spent two years as a French Government Scholar immediately prior to his tenure at Marshall. In addition to performing as the principal flutist with the HSO, Dobbs holds the same position in the Ohio Valley Symphony. He also performs with Blackbirds and Thrushes, a Huntington-based Celtic band.
Huntington Mayor Steve Williams served as emcee of the event, where he said the symphony is one of the city's biggest treasures.
"The symphony is one of the key jewels in Huntington's crown, and having them here adds to the quality of life for everyone," said Williams. "It's indicative of what we are as an area as it shows we have many of the things you can find in any large metro area."
Saturday's show was the last full orchestral offering from HSO before the Picnic with the Pops season begins in June, said Haas. Tickets for that season will go on sale in May.
For more information about the Huntington Symphony Orchestra, visit www.huntingtonsymphony.org or call 304-781-8343.
