The Legend of Zelda-Inspired Symphony Brings Cosplay to the Arsht

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Remember when this was cutting-edge technology?

In "holy crap, we're old" news, The Legend of Zelda gaming franchise celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2012. The Nintendo franchise is up there with Super Mario Brothers as one of the most recognizable and popular game franchises ever, with its newest entry, Skyward Sword (Wii), becoming the franchise's fastest-selling title. The characters, the kingdom of Hyrule, and the music have all become iconic in its 25-year run, inspiring cheers of triumph and many a curse word/controller smash throughout its history. The mere mention of the second NES game (The Adventure of Link) or the Water Temple level in Ocarina of Time are enough to send shivers down any gamer's spine.

And now, South Florida gamer geeks can experience Zelda in a whole new way: symphonically. To celebrate the 25th anniversary, Nintendo and San Francisco-based video game orchestra producer Jason Michael Paul have teamed up to bring The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses, a symphonic concert experience unlike any other, to the Arsht Center.

Symphony of the Goddesses is a complete four-movement symphony showcasing the work of Nintendo composer Koji Kondo, who has created music for the series since it first debuted in 1986. The symphony, performed by a 55-piece live orchestra, will be accompanied by a cinematic video presentation taking the audience through 25 years of Zelda's history.

The performance is scheduled to coincide with the Miami Comic-Con 2012, also taking place that weekend. Both fans of the game as well as the con's attendees are encouraged not only to attend, but to attend in cosplay as an homage to their favorite Legend of Zelda characters. So start shopping now for pantyhose and pointy ears -- you only have until December to perfect your Zelda costume.

Unfortunately, there will be no secret passages to explore or pots to smash, but the dulcet tones of the heart-replenishing magic flute will be in great supply.

Tickets for The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses (December 9, 8:30 p.m., John S. and James L. Knight Concert Hall) are already on sale to Arsht Center members; sales to the general public open September 8. Tickets range from $35 to $125. Call the Adrienne Arsht Center box office (305) 949-6722, or visit www.arshtcenter.org.

--Elisa Melendez

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