Written By Sason Bishope Parry
San Francisco – Barbie has always been everything to her fans, an icon, a muse, a symbol of imagination, and her blockbuster film did more than dominate the box office, it became a cultural reset. So, what better way to revisit this vibrant, heartfelt, pink-drenched world than experiencing it live with one of the finest orchestras in the country? On Saturday, November 29th, Davies Symphony Hall transformed into a post, Thanksgiving, or as I like to call it, thanks-living, celebration, filled with family energy, pink good-vibes, and a whole lot of joy.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just a movie night, it was a full-on Barbie takeover. Waves of fans showed up dressed in every shade of pink imaginable, from soft pastels to neon explosions. You had casual outfits, high-fashion fits, DIY masterpieces, and a handful of Barbies and Kens who looked ready to jump straight onto the big screen. Selfies were being snapped faster than you could say “Hi Barbie,” creating the perfect pre-show buzz.
Once the film began, the magic truly hit. The 2023 movie, led by the always-brilliant Margot Robbie and the scene-stealing Ryan Gosling, was already a blast when it first debuted. But hearing it paired with the San Francisco Symphony brought the entire experience to a whole new level. Super-conductor Sarah Hicks guided the orchestra with effortless mastery, allowing Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt’s score to leap from the screen and wrap itself around the audience.
Of course, one of the night’s biggest highlights was Billie Eilish and Finneas’ Oscar-winning song “What Was I Made For?” The moment those first notes rose from the orchestra pit; you could feel the entire audience shift emotionally. That song hit hard when it was first released, and hearing it live? There were plenty of teary eyes, and yes, Kleenex was in full circulation. Even the toughest grown men were wiping away nostalgia-heavy tears. No shame. That’s the power of great music.
Intermission kept the fun rolling. Instead of simply grabbing a drink or stretching your legs, the lobby featured a full-blown Barbie DIY station. The Symphony’s partners at SCRAP, this year’s Ellen Magnin Newman Award honorees, provided a colorful spread of craft materials so fans could design their very own one-of-a-kind Barbie or Ken. Glitter, fabric, stickers, sparkles, you name it. Watching people of all ages tap into their inner child and create their own characters was pure joy and added a unique, interactive twist you don’t get at your average symphony event.
As the night came to a close, the energy in the hall was glowing with pinkish happiness. The orchestra received well-deserved standing ovations, the fans left with fuller hearts, and the
magic of Barbie, paired with the superb talent of the SF Symphony, delivered an unforgettable after-holiday experience. Another incredible night at Davies Symphony Hall. Another reminder that music, film, creativity, and pure fun make the perfect combination.
For more information about the San Francisco Symphony, visit their website at sfsymphony.org.
