Leonard Bearstein Orchestra returns to Northgate

The Leonard Bearstein Orchestra is back at Northgate Mall for some patriotic music. The 18-piece animatronic symphony orchestra of bears will play at Northgate's Center Court through July 18. This summer, the theme is a patriotic Independence Day-style tribute with music inspired by Arthur Fielder and the Boston Pops.

The 42-minute program will run continuously during mall hours featuring Maestro Leonard Bearstein conducting his 18-piece symphony orchestra and the Not So Bearly Singers trio, according to a press release. Mad Magic of Charlotte designed the pieces, which include string, brass, woodwinds and percussion sections, along with vocalists who banter during the program.

Northgate also will have an educational worksheet with an instrument word search, coloring and other activities. You can ask for them at the mall's Customer Service Center through July 18.

“Northgate’s family-friendly events are always striving to be educational wherever possible, in this case around music education, and we are happy to bring these loveable bears back this summer to entertain our shoppers,” said Melodie Pugh, Northgate marketing director, in a press release.

Northgate Mall is located at 1058 West Club Blvd., Durham.