Testimonials from our #BackToThe80s Attendees
As we packed up the disco balls and drove “Travolta” back to the the airport, I could never have guessed the RSO would take on the ’80s. I was certain our decade celebrations had come to an end. But the outcry from this community to continue another decade—did we have a choice?
Countless hours of planning went into figuring out how to truly transport people Back to the 80s! The location, design, lighting, sound, orchestra … all had equal attention. But we hit a roadblock when eight weeks before the event, a new after party group was needed. I couldn’t be happier that we contracted The Ronald Reagan’s Big 80’s Show. They were the largest “surprise” of the evening!
What’s next? Who could guess? Certainly not me! Again, I thought we would leave the decades behind. But this community knows what it wants. We’re taking on the 90’s, folks!
-Monica Kochlein, RSO Executive Director
It was great to see so many people support the RSO signature event and embrace the theme with their 80s costumes. The symphony sounded great and the connection with the music and movie clips was a perfect way of celebrating some of the iconic images of the decade. The food by Chef Galo was excellent and the specially named drinks from Cordial Cork were apropos for the era. Dancing the night away to 80’s rock by The Ronald Reagans was a great way to cap off the evening. To me, the RSO signature event mirrors the quality, creativity, and excellence experienced at each and every performance of the RSO whether as a grand orchestra or an intimate concert series. I can’t wait until next season!
-Rev. Dr. Jeff Carter, President, Bethany Theological Seminary
RSO “Back to the 80s” – What an event! Seeing all the guests invest themselves in such a joyful night, enjoying the music and sharing their happy with friends and so many people from our community was fantastic. My favorite part is always hearing the symphony play wonderful pieces so delightfully right in my own town, it’s truly special. My second favorite is always dancing to songs that bring back so many memories. My first time attending RSO signature event was last year, and I was immediately captivated. Now I look forward to this event every year. It is a delectable and gratifying evening with super lively, pleasant people. Highly recommended!
-Claudia Edwards, Director of Programs and Operations, Amigos, The Richmond Latino Center
Working with Richmond Symphony Orchestra makes my job as their account executive, so easy.
Monica is always prepared for every meeting we have with great detail and direction.
When working with Ginger Gray productions, the event planner RSO uses, Monica was always there to ensure we had everything we needed as well for clear, concise communication.
At CS Kern, organizations like RSO, are truly a dream to work with. We can’t wait to see what next year’s Symphony Night Out brings.
-Marta Guinn, CS Kern
I was excited to be asked to be one of the photographers for the Richmond Symphony Signature event this year. Seeing that it was going to be an ‘80s theme made it even more interesting as this is the decade from my childhood. Being new I wasn’t sure what to expect but was floored when I saw the transformation of the Tom Raper Center from an agricultural building to party central. The event had several interesting backgrounds and lots of entertainment. The guests embraced the theme and there was no shortage of photogenic subjects. While the symphony performance was the main event the choir and the ‘80s band made it a nonstop party! RSO put on a great event and the buzz was that it was the best event in the area. I’m excited to work with them and can’t wait to see how they top it next year!
-Josh Smith, Photographer
One of the things I love about RSO events, is the beautiful consistency in design elements — everything has a look/feel that is not only accurate to the theme of the event, but also is inclusive of the variety of movies, music and visual experience of the decade. I think the 80s is something that many of the attendees remember well. There was lots of excitement around this year’s event. This is an evening, that’s not to be missed. Every attendee feels that they are receiving a special treat — an unforgettable evening and experience. So much to see and do!
I had my doubts when I heard there was a live band — so much of the 80s was iconic for its music. Boy, was I WRONG! This band was absolutely amazing. They brought so much energy and love to the dance music selection. I LOVE THEM!
-Pam Fraizer, FraizerDesigns
The Ronald Reagans BIG ’80s Show was thrilled to be a part of the RSO’s Back to the ’80s Signature Event! The band was blown away by the top-to-bottom magnitude of the production. The people of Richmond and its surrounding communities were amazing, with world-class talent and appreciation for the arts. We couldn’t stop smiling as the orchestra masterfully performed our favorite ’80s movie scores. Thank you for a truly unforgettable night! We are already incredibly excited to be a part of RSO’s 2020 Signature Event!
-The Ronald Reagans
