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arts entertainmentThings to Do

Dallas Symphony taps Nas, Big Gigantic and more for one-of-a-kind concert

Since its inception in 2015, Soluna International Music and Arts Festival has proved a breeding ground for artistic collaboration by bringing multi-sensory installations and performances to downtown Dallas each spring. The best part? You don't have to be a member for the art elite to enjoy the festival's offerings.

Past programming included a one-of-a-kind St. Vincent concert during which she was backed by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and a modern dance performance to an original score by Pharrell. Yes, that Pharrell.

In 2018, Soluna is adding a new component with massive pop culture appeal. Deemed Array, the event slated for May 12 brings musicians Nas, Jacob Banks, Kaleo and Big Gigantic to the Bomb Factory in Deep Ellum — but, rest assured, this is no average concert.

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Each of the artists will perform a set accompanied by a local music or dance troupe. More specifically, hip-hop maestro Nas will be backed by the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Banks, a British-Nigerian soul singer, will share the stage with the Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet. Kaleo's indie rock sound will be bolstered by the gospel choir from Booker T. Washington High School for the Visual and Performing Arts. And electronic duo Big Gigantic will team up with the Dallas Mavericks Drumline for what promises to be an energetic dance party.

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"As different as they may seem, the classical music of the symphony, the edgy artwork of Deep Ellum and countless innovations in the tech industry all share roots in Dallas's culture, and Array encompasses them all," said Sanjiv Yajnik, chairman of the Dallas Symphony Association Board of Governors and president of Capital One Financial Services, in a statement. (Captial One is presenting the event.)

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In addition to the lineup at the Bomb Factory, Array will extend to neighboring venue Canton Hall, which will be transformed into a pop-up art gallery. Ten Dallas-based artists are expected to present immersive, interactive works commissioned specifically for the event. According to a statement, that includes a 360-degree virtual reality experience, sculptures and multimedia installations. (See the full list of featured artists here.)

Soluna International Music and Arts Festival is slated for May 6-28 and includes much more than this singular event. Throughout its three weeks, attendees can expect classical music concerts, dance performances, workshops and more. This year's programming will also celebrate outgoing conductor Jaap van Zweden, who is joining the New York Philharmonic.

Tickets to Array at the Bomb Factory cost $68-$153 and go on sale Friday, March 9. The exhibits at Canton Hall will be free to attend.

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For a full list of events, visit mydso.com/soluna.