Rock Gold: Volume Three Returns with More Hits and Local Talent
By Amy Gold
Local audiences can’t get enough of Rock Gold—so the Orchestra of Southern Utah presents Volume Three on Thursday, November 20, at 7:30 p.m. in the Heritage Center Theater. “Good Vibrations” from the Beach Boys sets the tone for this exciting evening of popular music. Under the direction of Carylee Zwang, the full symphony orchestra will be joined by guitars, drums, vocalists, and dancers for a high-energy concert experience.
Tickets are available now at www.myosu.org. Lobby music starts at 6:45 pm with local women's acapella group SideNote.
This concert has sold out in the past, so early purchase is highly recommended.
“I can’t wait for this concert every year! You all know it’s my favorite! Believe me when I say, ‘You won’t want to miss this one!’ Get your tickets now so you don’t miss Rock Gold Three,” said Carylee Zwang, OSU Music Director and Conductor.
In addition to audience favorites like “I Get Around,” the concert features an expanded lineup of hits spanning several decades. While OSU is keeping a few surprises under wraps, audiences can expect powerful performances from a stellar lineup of soloists: newcomer Molly Shakespear, Tamara Reber from the 8eez, Conner Thornton from the local theatre scene, and additional singers Rebecca Cox, Karmin Eagar, and Jaley Cox.
The band Imagine Dragons, which began in Provo before relocating to Las Vegas, inspired one of the evening’s highlights with “Believer.” This international hit explores themes of resilience and overcoming hardship. The soloists for this number are Andrew Briggs, SUU Choral Director, with backup vocals by Mari Hobson, Sabrina Williams, and Michael Cox.
The disco-era favorite “Y.M.C.A.” by the Village People remains one of the most recognizable songs of the 1970s. It will feature Benjamin Dowse, Jacob Chipman, and Noah Fithian as soloists.
Madonna’s “Material Girl”—famous for its playful nod to Marilyn Monroe’s Gentlemen Prefer Blondes—asks whether true happiness comes from wealth or love. The song features Tamara Merkley on lead vocals, with Lizzy Ensign and Cynthia Ferree as backup.
The Beach Boys Medley includes “California Girls,” “Surfin’ Safari,” and “Good Vibrations.” In Stephen Burch’s orchestral arrangement, the string section mimics the haunting sound of a theremin, one of the most distinctive instruments of the 1960s surf-rock era.
Canadian superstar Shania Twain’s “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!” celebrates confidence and empowerment across generations. Mikelle Dowse sings the lead, joined by her mother Julie and daughter Erica Griffin on backup vocals.
Adele’s “Someone Like You,” co-written with Dan Wilson, reflects on love and loss and solidified Adele’s place as an international sensation. Kennedy McCuistion performs lead vocals, with Mandy Ballard on backup.
The concert also includes a powerful performance of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters.” Written by lead singer James Hetfield while missing his girlfriend on tour, the song’s message—“forever trusting who we are, and nothing else matters”—speaks to authenticity and connection. Lynsey Swiderska leads the number with Dakota Allison, Justin Olsen, and Kamron Tackett on backup.
With its mix of rock, pop, and orchestral brilliance, Rock Gold: Volume Three promises an evening of energy, nostalgia, and pure entertainment. Get your tickets at www.myosu.org for $15.75, general admission.
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Who: Orchestra of Southern Utah Concert |
| SideNote will provide lobby music before the concert |
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| Photo from Rock Gold II. Expect lights, choir, and vocalists with the orchestra. |
