Prepare to be thoroughly engaged, inspired and entertained by the opening concert of the Austin Symphony Orchestra at 2 p.m. Oct. 10 in Knowlton Auditorium.

“Exotic Egypt” features a program with a wide range of music, from Handel’s “The Entrance of the Queen of Sheba” to music from the animated movie “The Prince of Egypt”, which tells the story of Moses, to “On the Day You Were Born” by Minnesota composer Steve Heitzeg, which is dramatic music accompanying the book of the same name, narrated by Lisa Deyo.

The Egyptian theme continues with Saint-Saens’ beloved “Egyptian Concerto” which will be performed by Russian pianist Konstantin Soukhovetski. The Austin Symphony is honored by Konstantin’s return to Austin (He appeared with the symphony in 2004). Not only is Konstantin is an accomplished pianist; he is a dynamic performer, as well. A graduate of Julliard School in 2003, Konstantin has won many prizes and much recognition, including the third prize winner of the 2003 Cleveland International Piano Competition, as well as second prize in the 2004 UNISA International Piano Competition in Pretoria, South Africa. He was a winner of Julliard’s 2003 Gina Bachauer Competition.

Konstantin’s other love, besides piano, is acting. He is currently featured in an independent feature “Dishonorable Vendetta”; his biggest role since last summer.

DISHONORABLE VENDETTA: Trailer from AJ Epyx Productions on Vimeo.

“Acting makes me a better pianist. The precision with which I express different emotional states and the choices I make in my interpretation of the music are being informed by my experiences in acting. I am much more aware of the circumstance surrounding the music, and the direction I have to give it to achieve a connection between the composer and the audience,” Konstantin said.

Tickets for this concert are on sale now. All children are admitted free. Adult season tickets (for 4 concerts) are $30. Senior season tickets are $26. And, for first time subscribers, a season ticket is half price. Contact Marge Dunlap at 433-5647.