Project Mayhem to add laser show to concert

BOARDMAN — Project Mayhem, the electronic-rock side project of the Boardman High School orchestras, is now in its fourth year. This year’s concert will be 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Boardman Performing Arts Center, 7777 Glenwood Ave.

The ensemble, which plays rock music and is reminiscent of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, uses smoke machines, light displays and all the high-energy movement of a rock concert, complete with musicians moving about on stage.

“It’s a new style for our orchestra that the whole community should come to see,” says violinist Lindsay Kirkham-Olsen. At its upcoming concert, Project Mayhem will perform classic rock songs from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s and today. “We tie four decades of music into one night, and it’s totally going to rock,” said Melanie Deramo, electric violinist.

This year’s set list will include Santana’s “Smooth,” Bon Jovi’s “It’s My Life,” Coheed and Cambria’s “Welcome Home,” Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin.’” Kansas’ “Carry On My Wayward Son” and three songs by Michael Jackson: “Thriller,” “Beat It” and “Billie Jean.”

New in this year’s performance will be a laser show, said co-director Bill Amendol. Lightwave International, a Pittsburgh company that has done laser shows for major rock bands, including Pink Floyd and Korn, will create the laser show.

Tickets are $5 and will go on sale at 6 p.m. the night of the show. All seats are general admission.