Several marching bands to showcase their talent at Prairie Colors

The Eden Prairie High School Eagle Marching Band will host its annual Prairie Colors Marching Band Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at Aerie Stadium, 17185 Valley View Road.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for seniors or K-12 students. Children 5 and under are free. Gates open at 10 a.m. Concessions will be available.

Twelve bands – 11 from Minnesota and one from Iowa – will compete for championship trophies and caption awards. The bands will be judged on marching and maneuvering execution, general effect visual, color guard, music execution, general effect musical, and percussion.

Each year, Prairie Colors is the first marching band competition held in Minnesota. According to Amanda Erisgen, one of the event’s organizers, all of the participating bands have been practicing their drills and music for weeks.

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Under the direction of Ben Carter, Michael Okwabi, and Mike Whipkey, the Eagle Marching Band will perform its 2024 field show, “Mayhem on Mainstreet,” at 2:30 p.m.

Carter described this year’s show as a detective mystery show with a film noir-inspired theme. “It’s high energy,” he added.

“I really like the detective theme,” said Eagle band drum major Avery Nicpon. “I think it’s the most fun theme we’ve done.”

The show’s music is predominantly 1940s and 1950s jazz music, and the choreography includes playful jazz dance elements.

“This is an awesome show,” said band director Mike Okwabi. “I’m excited about the vibe we’re giving in it.”

Funds from the event will help the Eagle Marching Band pay for coaching and travel to its competitions this year.

Information about Prairie Colors can be found on the Eden Prairie Bands website.