Do you ever miss the circus? The elephants trumpeting, the call of horns, and the faint twang of a trapeze. Well, no need to go far because Orchestra will be bringing the show to you! Next month, the Arcadia High School Orchestras will be proudly hosting the annual Orchestra Benefit Dinner (OBD). The 2022 theme is The Greatest Show, and the event will be from 5:00-10:00 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26. However, unlike the name suggests, there will be no typical banquet festivities. Because of COVID-19 concerns, maskless activities will be kept to a minimum. 

Still, there will be plenty of activities to enjoy, from chamber music ensembles to a high stakes silent auction. Additionally, OBD is Orchestra’s biggest fundraiser. Since all gatherings were canceled last year, OBD 2022 has the potential to help out Orchestra with transportation fees, instrument repairs, and more. 

Freshman Chloe Shiu is a violinist in Premier Orchestra and a Social Chair in Orchestra Council. This is her first year in Orchestra, and this February marks her first time participating in OBD.

“I’m looking forward to attending and performing at the OBD since it’s my first time,” Shiu said. She predicts that this will be “an unforgettable orchestra event.”

Meanwhile, on the other side of the grade spectrum is senior Robin Huang, who plays violin in Symphony Orchestra. The last time he went to OBD was in his sophomore year and, in remembering the gathering only had positive recollections.

“OBD brought people from [different periods] closer,” said Huang. “I remember we played Star Wars music back in 2020… Overall, the vibe was great!”

It’s been two years since Huang last got to experience the event, and he’s most looking forward to the orchestral music this year. In accordance with the theme, all four orchestras will participate in a group playing of The Greatest Showman soundtrack, including “This is Me”and “ Tightrope.” This is, as many orchestra members would agree, the most memorable part of OBD evenings. Over 200 students play in synchronicity, scattered throughout the guest tables.

If you are unable to make the date, another way you could contribute is through a monetary donation or a silent auction item. Silent auction items must be at a minimum cost of $50 and should be brand new. 

 Tickets can be purchased through any Orchestra member and cost $40 per person. The fun-filled event will be held at the Arcadia Masonic Lodge located at Center 50 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia, CA 91007. See you there!

Graphic courtesy of Arcadia High School’s Orchestra Council