Winter Tales: From Fairyland to Enigma
December 19 | 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm
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Winter Tales: From Fairyland to Enigma
Bates Recital Hall
2406 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin
Youth are always free with discounts available for adults.
Please consider making a donation with your ticket purchase.
We keep costs low, so that more can enjoy the concert.
Dr. Bo Young Kang, Guest Conductor
The Austin Civic Orchestra continues its 2026–27 season theme, Journeys of Wonder and Beauty, with the first of four Music Director finalist concerts. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Bo Young Kang to the podium as she opens this special series, guiding audiences through a program rich in imagination, charm, and emotional depth.
The evening begins with Humperdinck’s Prelude from Hänsel und Gretel, a radiant and lyrical introduction that evokes the warmth and magic of a beloved fairy tale. Bizet’s Jeux d’enfants follows, offering a sparkling suite inspired by childhood games—full of quick wit, colorful orchestration, and playful spirit. The program culminates in Elgar’s masterful Variations on an Original Theme, “Enigma”, a deeply expressive set of musical portraits that reveal character, friendship, and mystery through some of the most enduring writing in the orchestral repertoire.
Winter Tales: From Fairyland to Enigma marks the next step in our journey with four exceptional finalists who will lead the ACO from December through May. Join us as we explore beauty, storytelling, and artistic vision throughout the season.
Program
- Prelude from Hänsel und Gretel by Engelbert Humperdinck
- Jeux d’enfants, Op. 22: Petite Suite d’orchestre by Georges Bizet
- Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36, “Enigma” by Edward Elgar
Public Transportation
There are several bus stops near the concert location. Plan your trip.
Parking for Bates Recital Hall
Free parking is available along Dean Keaton. Paid parking is in the San Jacinto garage.
This project is supported in part by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts, an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, and an Elevate Grant of Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment.
