The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran captivated audiences this week with a unique orchestral tribute to iconic video game soundtracks titled “Game On.”
Running nightly until April 5, the event combines symphonic music with HD gameplay visuals and rare concept art, reimagining fan-favorite games such as League of Legends, Overwatch, and Assassin’s Creed.
Interactive Storytelling Meets Live Music
Renowned conductor Sergey Smbatyan, founder of the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra, engaged the crowd on opening night with his dynamic approach.
“Imagine walking through an art museum,” he said, “but let the musicians narrate the stories behind these vivid screens.”
Smbatyan encouraged spontaneous applause, breaking away from traditional concert norms to foster a deeper connection with the audience.
Dhahran resident Paul Blay attended the event with his daughters, Sylvia, 11, and Celeste, 10, sharing his love for both gaming and music.
“Today’s finest compositions thrive in films and games,” Blay observed, praising Ithra’s world-class presentation. Since moving to Saudi Arabia last year, the family has embraced events that blend creativity and culture.
Inspiration in Digital Melodies
Celeste, a budding harpist, highlighted her love for video game scores: “The music is pretty and motivates me to play.” Her sister Sylvia, a pianist and clarinetist, echoed the sentiment, showcasing how gaming soundtracks inspire Saudi Arabia’s next-gen artists.
The concert concludes on Saturday, featuring scores from Assassin’s Creed and World of Warcraft. Tickets start at SAR 200 ($53), available at Ithra’s box office or online. Dive into a realm where pixels and orchestras collide—reserve your spot today!
