Unleashed by a rock band backed by the symphony and choir, ‘We Will Rock You’ entertained 3,000-plus fans Thursday at Cannonsburg Ski Area, the first of two steamy nights of Queen’s music. (Photos, review)
The Music of Queen: Singer Michael Shotton led the “Killer Queen” attack on Thursday, accompanied by the Grand Rapids Symphony. (Photo/Anna Sink)
A young boy bravely took the microphone Thursday evening on a stage full of professional musicians to sing his part of “Don’t Stop Me Now” in front of an impressive crowd.
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Summer Fun: More than 3,000 people turned out at Cannonsburg Ski Area for Thursday’s concert. (Photo/Anna Sink)
It was a moment that would make any parent proud.
“We Will Rock You: The Music of Queen,” part of the Grand Rapids Symphony’s D&W Fresh Market Picnic Pops series, proved to be a night of nostalgic appreciation for the legendary rock band.
A crowd of about 3,100 gathered at Cannonsburg Ski Area in Belmont to watch the first of two straight nights of the tribute, with rock musicians from Ontario’s Jeans ‘n Classics backed by the Grand Rapid Symphony and its choir. Grand Rapids accordionist Michael Schaeffer commenced the evening’s pre-concert entertainment before lead singer Michael Shotton joined the symphony for their renditions of songs by the classic rock band.
Audience Participation: Shotton during Thursday’s show. (Photo/Anna Sink)
The rock-meets-orchestra ensemble charmed the audience with some of Queen’s greatest hits: “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Killer Queen,” “We Are the Champions” and “We Will Rock You” were among some of the crowd favorites. The band also delivered a heartwarming tribute to the late David Bowie, followed by its version of The Queen/Bowie collaboration, “Under Pressure.”
Many concertgoers enjoyed themselves by dancing and singing along while their children played on the Cannonsburg slope. Others simply enjoyed the view of the outdoor stage from the top of the hill, surrounded by nature and seemingly far away from the bustle of Grand Rapids.
The show will be repeated at Cannonsburg Ski Area at 7:30 p.m. Friday. Get tickets and details online here.
Due to the ongoing heat wave, the symphony will provide complimentary water and cooling/misting stations during Friday’s performance.
PHOTO GALLERY: Picnic Pops’ “The Music of Queen”
Photos by Anna Sink
