Rather than their usual programming of stuffy British period piece comedies, and another four hour block of Antiques Roadshow, PBS will attempt to pull in a younger demographic this summer when they air Video Games Live. An immersive event featuring the best video game music performed by top-notch musicians and choirs combined with synchronized lighting, video, live action and audience interactivity. While Video Games Live has been around for a few years, this particular performance that’s airing was taped at the Lakefront Arena in New Orleans with the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra.

“We are introducing a whole new generation to the music of a symphony orchestra,” said veteran video game composer and Video Games Live CEO/executive producer and host Tommy Tallarico. “Never before in history have kids been dragging their parents to watch a symphony.”

The Video Games Live CD and DVD/Blu-Ray release will coincide with the nationally televised special and will be available exclusively through PBS until November 1, 2010. The CD features 16 musical performances, and the DVD/Blu-Ray includes more than three hours of bonus material, including extended musical segments, composer and game developer interviews, exclusive game trailers, “making the game” documentaries, behind-the-scenes footage and composer commentary.

The musical lineup for the airing of Video Games Live is a bit of a gamer’s wet dream, as there will be musical performances of the Mario, Zelda, Sonic the Hedgehog, Halo, Warcraft, Final Fantasy, Castlevania, God of War, Civilization, Chrono Cross, StarCraft and Guitar Hero franchises, including a musical journey through classic gaming.

Video Games Live will begin airing on PBS later this month, and throughout August. To check your local listings, click here.

About The Author

Jim Murray is a Blast staff writer

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