VAM Symphony Orchestra: A Musical Storybook 2025

Location: Orpheum Theatre, 601 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC
Date: Sunday, November 23, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM PST
Admission: $8.76 – $19.06
Website: https://vancouveracademyofmusic.com/vam-events/vam-symphony-orchestra-a-musical-storybook/

Event Overview

The Vancouver Academy of Music Symphony Orchestra (VAMSO) presents A Musical Storybook, a family-friendly symphonic experience designed to captivate audiences of all ages. Held at the historic Orpheum Theatre, this special concert blends storytelling, humour, and the magic of orchestral music, introducing younger listeners to the instruments, sections, and personalities of a modern symphony orchestra.

The program features the comedic mystery The Composer is Dead, a musical whodunnit that personifies each orchestral section as suspects in a musical crime. Following the narrative portion, the orchestra performs a cinematic collection of popular scores from Disney, DreamWorks, and other beloved film worlds—including The Lion King, Frozen, Encanto, and How to Train Your Dragon.

This event offers an accessible and engaging introduction to orchestral music, making it an excellent outing for families, students, and anyone who appreciates music-driven storytelling.

Program Highlights

The Composer is Dead (~30 minutes)

A witty, theatrical, and entertaining piece that treats the orchestra as characters in a crime mystery, guiding young audiences through each instrument group—strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion—and showcasing their unique sounds and personalities.

Disney & DreamWorks Symphonic Collection (~45 minutes)

A cinematic musical journey featuring themes from:
• The Lion King
• Frozen
• How to Train Your Dragon
• Encanto
• Additional Disney and DreamWorks favourites

This portion blends orchestral performance with recognizable melodies from major animated films, creating a concert that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Note: Repertoire and performers may be subject to change.

Family Activities (Starting at 1:00 PM)

Complimentary pre-show activities welcome families for an immersive musical afternoon:

• Family Photo Booth
Capture memories before the concert begins.

• Face Painting for Kids
A popular activity offering playful designs and creative fun for younger attendees.

Early arrival is recommended for participation in all activities.

Why Attend

• A perfect introduction to orchestral music for children and first-time concertgoers
• Affordable pricing for families
• A blend of narrative, humour, and film scores to keep audiences engaged
• A rare chance to experience a large symphony orchestra in a relaxed, family-friendly setting
• A fun and educational cultural outing at the iconic Orpheum Theatre

Plan Your Visit

The Orpheum Theatre is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, easily accessible by transit, rideshare, and nearby parking facilities. Doors typically open one hour before performance time.

Venue Address:
Orpheum Theatre
601 Smithe Street
Vancouver, BC

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