Omaha Symphony's first Simulcast at the Gene Leahy Mall

Like a window into the concert hall, the Omaha Symphony’s first-ever simulcast on June 1, 2024, brought the sights and sounds of the orchestra onto the lawn of the Gene Leahy Mall.

Playing on a big screen at the park’s performance pavilion, camera feeds captured each instrument section from multiple angles and close-up views. Hosts Ernest Richardson and KVNO’s Coleen Cook engaged the audience from the outdoor stage in between pieces by answering questions, providing background information on the music, and sharing anecdotes about their connections to the program.

Around 300 people staked a claim in the grass, bringing lawn chairs and blankets to customize their outdoor viewing experience.

The simulcast showed the Omaha Symphony’s 2023-24 Season finale program, Tchaikovsky 6. Featured compositions include John Adams’ eccentric “Lollapalooza,” Adam Shoenberg’s Losing Earth Percussion Concerto performed by Jacob Nissily, and, of course, Tchaikovsky’s heart-wrenching Symphony No. 6.

If you missed this unique production, don’t fret – the Omaha Symphony will be at the Gene Leahy Mall on July 4 and 5 to perform live in the park.

The July 4 concert will feature patriotic music and a huge fireworks show, while the July 5 show brings the rock ‘n roll stylings of local legend Billy McGuigan on stage with the symphony to perform music from artists like the Beatles and Queen. Both concerts are free and open to everyone!