Spokane's Baroque-Inspired Fireworks Concert Celebrates 30th Birthday

By Cassandra Jones

We've all heard the joke, "If it ain't Baroque, don't fix it." Well, that saying is less a punch line and more a reality when Allegro Baroque and Beyond, a Spokane-area non-profit, kicks off the 30th anniversary of its Royal Fireworks Concert, scheduled for Sunday, July 27, at 9 p.m.

As the only live choreographed fireworks show in the world, it's not hard to see why 30,000 people visit it year after year at Riverfront Park.

Allegro's 60- piece Royal Band will entertain concert attendees on the Floating Stage by opening with various compositions from the baroque period and ending with George Frederick Handel's Musik for the Royal Fireworks, which was written and performed to commemorate the end of the War of Austrian Succession. The final movements of Handel's piece will be accompanied by the largest display of fireworks in Allegro's history to celebrate its 30th year.

In addition to the concert and for those who want to get there earlier, various activities will take place in the Lilac Bowl and Meadow starting at 4 p.m. that include a Baroque Ballet Performance, costumed entertainers acting out a Baroque-drama to that takes place when King George II ruled England prior to the Industrial Revolution, and more.

For those who want to avoid the heat of the afternoon and who also want to avoid the inevitable traffic issues, it's recommended you arrive around dusk to find a place on the steps of the Opera House to watch the live band.

You can also find a nice spot in the Lilac Bowl Meadow, the Clock Tower Meadow, and the Looff Carrousel and Red Wagon vicinities and have a picnic, read a book, or simply enjoy your company as you wait to experience this celebration of all things baroque-puffy wigs, opulent lifestyles and décor, fabulous make-up, lavish costumes, period art, and, of course, dazzling displays of fireworks set to live music.

What's even better? The day's events and the concert are free. For more information, visit www.allegrobaroque.org.