Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is showing a family-themed concert, The Snowman, at the Cape Fear Botanical Garden in the Orangery, on Dec. 10 at 4 p.m. Admission is free. A separate ticket to attend the Holiday Light Show at the Botanical Garden is available for purchase. Go to their website capefearbg.org for pricing.

“The Snowman” is a great holiday story about a young boy who builds a snowman on Christmas Eve that comes to life and takes him to the North Pole to meet Father Christmas.

The 1978 picture book of the same name, written by English illustrator and cartoonist, Raymond Briggs, is a timeless tale that captured the hearts of its readers with its beautiful illustrations and heartwarming narrative. In 1982, the book made its way onto the silver screen, combining animated visuals with a symphonic poem element. The film was accompanied by a mesmerizing musical score composed by Howard Blake, further enhancing the magical atmosphere of this captivating story.

"The Snowman" continues to be cherished by audiences of all ages, as it transports viewers into a world filled with wonder and imagination. Combining Briggs' delightful storytelling, Blake's evocative music, and the stunning animations, it creates an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Whether you are revisiting this classic tale or discovering it for the first time, "The Snowman" will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Meghan Woolbright is the marketing and office manager at Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra. She states that the FSO is committed to offering free admission concerts to the community so all can experience what they offer without cost as a barrier. Generous donations are made by various organizations, by way of gifts, and individuals.

The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County and the North Carolina Arts Council have been huge supporters in their commitment through donations that has helped FSO continue offering free concerts.
Woolbright loves the work she has committed to do for FSO and feels rewarded when she sees the community come out to support the arts.

Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra was founded in 1956, bringing music to the schools and the community by performing educational concerts featuring its own Fayetteville Symphony Youth Orchestra, after-school strings and summer music camps. Their mission is to educate, entertain and inspire the citizens of Cumberland County by offering family-friendly movies and other musical events.

They believe in the arts and what they bring to the community by providing free or low-priced concerts and other events. In addition, the Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra is essential in delivering educational programs for our youths in the arts. Every year, they choose elementary schools in preparation for third-grade students for their upcoming symphony visits. They offer internships to college students and high school mentoring programs.

You can make a donation by visiting their website at www.fayettevilleorchestra.org or by calling 910-433-4690.