Hard to believe, Magik*Magik Orchestra is already/only 5-years-old. What looked at the beginning an ad-hoc group of young musicians getting together to perform some unusual repertory has become an Institution. They combine classical, rock, pop, and the kitchen sink in a mostly sensational mix. Now they are organizing a huge fifth-anniversary fundraising gala in the Fox Theater, Oakland, on Jan. 31.
The evening is called "When We Were Young" (yes, cute), and it is presented by Another Planet Entertainment and Noise Pop. Participating artists confirmed so far — more to come for sure — include:
Nicki Bluhm & the Gramblers
The Dodos
Diana Gameros
Geographer
How to Dress Well
Zoe Keating
The Lonely Forest
Maestro Michael Morgan
The Pacific Boychoir
Rogue Wave
Two Gallants
John Vanderslice
For such an important fund-raiser, ticket prices are modest, from $29.50 to $45; there are some $300 VIP tickets as well.
Spearheaded by arranger Minna Choi, Magik*Magik has already been involved in more than 100 projects, including performing and recording the original film score for Looper (with Bruce Willis & Joseph Gordon-Levitt in the cast), composing arrangements and performing with Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds in the Bill Graham Auditorium, and many others.