On Friday, July 31st, the SAN DIEGAN critiqued an incredible presentation of the world famous Cirque de la Symphonie.

It combined the dazzling circus acts of the Cirque with exciting sounds of San Diego’s Symphony Orchestra. The artistic performances seen in theaters and arenas everywhere were beautifully choreographed to classical masterpieces and popular contemporary music to the enthusiastic applause of a most appreciative audience under the stars at Marina Park South.

The atmosphere was elegant, yet San Diego summer casual with the relaxed audience sitting in bleachers, lawn chairs and tables facing the full symphony orchestra dressed in their finest attire.

The experience is no less than spectacular.

If you want to go first class, book seating at a table where you can dine before the performance and then enjoy the evening there as well. If so book seating in the Champagne, Premium Cabaret, Cabaret or Cabaret II sections. They have a food court as well. Even better, you can pre-order food or bring your own picnic. Plus, you can purchase a bottle of wine or other beverages here as well to enjoy during the show. The Wednesday before the weekend show is the deadline to preorder your meal. You can order online, www.crownpointcatering.com, or by phone (619-223-1211).

The dress code is summer casual, but warm sweaters and jackets are essential, especially when the sun goes down

An item NOT to bring is your camera, mine was confiscated at the front and returned at the end of the show.

If you decide not dine at the Supper Pops, two nearby dining venues are recommended. One is Joe’s Crab Shack, which is at the foot of Marina Park South and almost in front of Summer Pops. The other recommendation is the new Hilton By the Bay Hotel. The Hilton is a block and a half from the Summer Pops.

Parking at the Summer Pops is NOT an issue because the huge underground parking at the San Diego Convention Center ($10) solves any problems.

Experiencing waterfront seating with downtown San Diego’s city lights in the background is a “must do summer experience”. There are still lots of fabulous venues to choose from. So make this a summer to remember by attending the Supper Pops.

This is a personal review of The Summer Pops Concerts on the Bay by the SAN DIEGAN staff writer, Blair Berndes.