Spider-Verse Live
Living in Upstate New York, there aren’t many opportunities to enjoy the wonder of cinema in entirely unconventional and innovative ways. IMAX allowed us to watch action unfold upon a colossally expanded screen, and then Regal’s 4DX theater at Destiny USA morphed movies into an amusement park ride with innovative and exciting interactive features like sensory stimulations and moving seats. Other than those examples, however, other marquee moments have been minimal.
On November 17, 2024, however, the Oncenter Crouse Hinds Theater will offer audiences the chance to experience something exceedingly electric and original. With one of the best films of the past decade playing on a screen above the stage, multiple live elements will be incorporated as a companion, enhancing what was already a transcendent production into something entirely new.
As a sequel to the Academy Award winning SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDER-VERSE, SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE was an equally triumphant masterpiece. For those who have not seen the films, they infuse a countless array of animation styles that are perfectly intwined with one another. With enthralling storylines that feature action, suspense, and heavy doses of humor, they also boast pulse-pounding soundtracks that aren’t merely used to fill space, but executed in a way in which the music enhances every scene.
ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE had the unenviable task of following the original, which was easily one of the greatest animated films ever produced. With that kind of pressure, a letdown seemed inevitable. Thankfully, to the relief of fans across the globe, this did not happen. The sequel was every bit as dazzling as the original and emerged as another instant classic. Obliterating the belief that “cartoons are for kids” ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE is an eye-popping production that appeals to those of any age. The characters are diverse, introspective, complex, and most importantly, wildly entertaining.
On November 17, 2024, a live show will be taking place at the Oncenter that is quite unlike anything you have ever seen before. As ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE plays above the stage, a live orchestra, one that features traditional elements alongside electronics and turntables, will perform the soundtrack in real-time. The orchestra is positioned in a way that allows audiences to easily see both the screen and the musicians, creating an uniquely engaging experience. Their performance is seamlessly integrated and synchronized to the film as to enrich but not compromise the integrity of the original audio. Led by virtuosic composer Shelbie Rassler (who is only 26-years old!) the orchestra is comprised of professional musicians and soloists, some of them local, who utilize their considerable expertise to deliver an unforgettable event. As mentioned, music is integral to the success of SPIDER-VERSE, and these live elements aid in enhancing the depth and emotion of pivotal moments throughout the film.
The show has already played in multiple cities and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. From professional critiques to praises abound on social media, audience members have reveled in the harmonious collaboration of the beautiful animation and live music. The ambiance creates a communal atmosphere that you’ll never have in a silent theater and brings fans together as never before. 
What makes ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE such a perfect candidate for an event such as this, is its uncanny ability to win over the viewer and stay with them long after the credits roll. Both SPIDER-VERSE movies have resonated with audiences in ways that only the greatest works of art can do. I am speaking firsthand in this regard. I saw both films in the theater with my children (now 15 and 12), and they have watched both countless times at home. They listen to the soundtrack regularly, and it fills my movie-nerd heart with unabashed joy to hear them discuss the plethora of different animation styles that co-exist to craft a visually stunning story that can also make them laugh and keep them on the edge of their seats. They are not alone in these feelings, and this why the live production of ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE is perfect for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
