Ad Astra “To the Stars” Concert

Saturday, February 28th, 10:00 am
Rosehill Community Center

Admission: FREE!

Embark on a cosmic musical journey with the Mukilteo Community Orchestra.

Soar and explore the stars with Gustav Holst’s vibrant “Jupiter” from The Planets, “Sunrise” from Richard Strauss’s Also Sprach Zarathustra – also known as the opening theme of 2001: Space Odyssey – and popular and beloved Star Wars and Star Trek themes.

Bring your family for a fun and free space-themed musical adventure, including several interactive experiences: Art Contest & Display, Costume Space Walk, and Instrument Petting Zoo!

See below for information on our interactive experiences!

Thanks to the collaboration with the Mukilteo Recreation & Cultural Services Department, this spectacular Ad Astra performance (and all MCO concerts) is free for all.

Ad Astra Space-Theme Concert Promotion Image. Contains text: Instrument petting zoo - see instruments up close and try them out!; Costume Space Walk - Dress as your favorite astronaut, alien, or star, etc. - the more creative, the better!; Art Contest - create space-inspired artwork and submit fo ra chance to win! Artwork will be displayed at the concert. Grand Prize for winners, an immersive orchestra participation experience.

Ad Astra Concert Interactive Experiences

Art Contest

Eligibility:
-Open to pre-k through 5th graders
-One entry per child
-Art in any medium, including photography.
-Artwork must be submitted on 8.5×11″ (letter sized) paper. If your artwork is 3D or larger than 8.5×11″, take a picture of it and size it to fit on an 8.5×11″ paper for submission.

*Original oversized and 3D artwork can be turned in to Rosehill Community Center for Display at the concert.


How to Enter:
Submit your artwork and the “Art Contest Form” below by January 31, 2026* to the Rosehill Community Center or to the Mukilteo Library. 
*UPDATE: The Art Contest deadline has been extended to February 9th, 2026.

Prizes:
Grand Prize (One winner): The winner’s art piece will be featured on our concert program and in all advertising posters! Plus an immersive orchestra experience.*
Grade Level Winners (One winner per grade level: Pre-K, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th): Each of these winners gets an immersive orchestra experience.*
All entries: Art will be displayed at the Ad Astra Children’s concert.

*Immersive orchestra experience could be conducting the orchestra, sitting in a section during one of the songs, or playing a percussion instrument during the performance; details will be worked out with each winner. 

Art Display

Eligibility:
Everyone 6th grade through adults, bring your space-inspired artwork to share the spotlight—no prizes, just applause and cosmic fame!
-One entry per person.
-Art in any medium, including photography.
-Artwork must be submitted on 8.5×11″ (letter sized) paper. If your artwork is 3D or larger than 8.5×11″, take a picture of it and size it to fit on an 8.5×11″ paper for submission.

*Original oversized and 3D artwork can be turned in to Rosehill Community Center for Display at the concert.  

How to Enter:
Submit your artwork and the “Art Display Form” below by January 31, 2026 to the Rosehill Community Center or to the Mukilteo Library. Your work will be exhibited alongside the kids’ contest entries Perfect for hobbyists, pros, or anyone who loves space + music.

Costume Space Walk Contest

Dress up as your favorite astronaut, alien, Jedi, Storm trooper, star, etc. – inspired by Star Wars, Star Trek, 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Planets and beyond!

Eligibility:
All audience members.

How to Enter:
As the MCO brass sections play a triumphant fanfare medley, parade the aisles of the auditorium, strike poses, wave light sabers (safely!), let the music launch you to the stars. The audience is encouraged to CHEER LOUDLY!

No registration required – just join when the time is right.

Prize:
Best costume wins a pro photo print of you in your costume.

Instrument Petting Zoo

Discover your inner musician during this hands-on musical adventure open to kids and adults alike! Try out a variety of instruments—strings, brass, woodwinds, and more. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned player, there’s something for everyone to explore. Takes place at the conclusion of the Ad Astra concert.

The instrument petting zoo is generously hosted by
Kennelly Keys/American Music.

Kennelly Keys American Music Logo