The leaves are a-changin', the apples are dressed in caramel, the pumpkins are smiling and the veil is at its thinnest between the living and the deceased. The last part of that sentence refers to the tradition of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) – a Mexican custom which takes place Nov. 1 and 2 – during which people gather to remember friends and family members who have passed.

Disney Pixar’s “Coco” draws on this commemorative, celebratory holiday and presents a vibrant, heartwarming story about a boy who finds his identity as a musician through his ancestors.

The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra (MSO) will perform the beloved score during a screening of the film on a gargantuan screen. "Coco in Concert" takes place Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets start at $30 and are available here. 

“Coco” is the ideal show for the season with extraordinary animation details, a popular musical score and a storyline rooted in family, self discovery and passion. The plot focuses on 12-year-old Miguel, who dreams of being an incredible musician. However, his family has other plans for him as a shoemaker, forcing him to hide his aspiration and his guitar. Miguel embarks on a colorful adventure to the afterlife, where – with the help of a skeleton named Héctor – he learns about himself through his family history.

Thinking about taking your crew or catching it during the next date night? Perfecto! Here are five more reasons to procure tickets to this delightful show en pronto.

1. ’Tis the spirit of the season. 

"Coco in Concert with the MSO" is a unique and enriching way to celebrate what some call “spooky season” in a not-so-spooky way. Imagine a sweater-worthy November evening or afternoon, a hot beverage, your favorite people and an immersive seasonal experience exploding with Mexican culture, folklore and music. Sound appealing? We think so.

2. The meaningful and important message.

This film explores the joyful journey to find our true selves through the power of family. The loving message is ideal for Dia de los Muertos time, as well as upcoming December holidays. Love and respect of our family, our ancestors and ourselves will always show “the way.”

In addition, Mexico is often depicted in the media as a violent and dangerous place, whereas “Coco” realistically portrays the creative, family-oriented and visually beautiful aspects of the country and its people. 

3. The diversity of the music.

“Coco” features a variety of Mexican music genres including mariachi, Son jarocho, Ranchera, Banda, Trio romántico and original songs including the popular “Remember Me” and “Un Poco Loco.” The music is catchy, emotional and culturally accurate. The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra takes it to a new level by providing a memorable, live experience as they have with dozens of film scores in the past.

Plus, during the Saturday night performance, Ometochtli Mexican Folk Dance Group will perform traditional Mexican and Aztec folk dance.

4. A positive perspective on passing.

Day of the Dead honors deceased loved ones, celebrates their contributions during their time on earth and provides a sense of reunion through tribute and memory. It can be a sad time, but the heart of it is about something deeper. "Coco" reflects this message: as long as a person is remembered, they will never disappear from the physical world.

5. Inspires all to reflect on family.

A possible take-away from “Coco” is that it’ll inspire audiences to learn more about their personal family lore, draw connections between passed loved ones and those living with inherited gifts, and gain greater understanding of familial inclusion despite differences. To further illustrate these valuable messages and more, The MSO partnered with Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design (MIAD) to create an ofrenda (altar) that will be on display all weekend. 

Get tickets to "Coco in Concert with the MSO" here.The show runs Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 3 at 2:30 p.m.

An interview about "Coco" with conductor Ryan Tani: