Wednesday, July 8, 6:00pm

Carl Topilow, conductor (bio)
Devin DeSantis, vocalist

ON THE PROGRAM

R. Strauss Thus Spake Zarathustra: Introduction
Orff “O Fortuna” from Carmina burana
Williams “The Mission”
Wildhorn “Into the Fire” from The Scarlet Pimpernel 
Arr. Wendel The Flintstones meet the Jetsons
Schönberg “Stars” from Les Misérables
Nero Voyage into Space
Williams “Adventures on Earth” from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Horner Selections from Apollo 13 
Williams “Across the Stars” from Star Wars: Attack of the Clones 
Leigh “The Impossible Dream” from Man of La Mancha 
Carmichael “Stardust”
Holst “Mars” from The Planets 
Schönberg “Bring Him Home” from Les Misérables 
Custer Star Trek Through the Years 
Williams “Imperial March” from Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back 
Williams Theme from Superman

ABOUT THE PROGRAM

“The Final Frontier” propels our American Adventures season beyond earthly borders, charting a course through music inspired by the boundless pull of the stars. The journey ignites with Strauss’ iconic opening of Also Sprach Zarathustra,” instantly recognizable from the infamous opening of 2001: A Space Odyssey, before soaring into John Williams’ cinematic worlds, from the wonder of E.T. and Star Wars to the triumphant theme from Superman. James Horner’s Apollo 13 selections and Holst’s relentless “Mars” conjure both the peril and majesty of space exploration. Broadway anthems like “The Impossible Dream” and “Bring Him Home” will be brought to life by vocalist Devin DeSantis, alongside nostalgic favorites from Star Trek, The Flintstones, and The Jetsons, rounding out an evening that blends spectacle, adventure, and heartfelt aspiration—reminding us that the spirit of exploration lives as much within us as it does among the stars.

FEATURED PHOTO BY CURTIS DEVORE

This year, the NRO is proud to partner with local photographers whose work embodies the theme “American Adventures.” Curtis DeVore is a Colorado-based photographer & videographer specializing in action sports, outdoor lifestyle & brands, and events. For over a decade, he’s helped clients bring their stories to life, focusing on the authentic experiences that make every project meaningful.