HAMILTON, Ohio - The Hamilton Community Foundation and Butler Philharmonic will celebrate their shared 75th anniversaries with a free live orchestrated showing of Disney’s Encanto at RiversEdge Amphitheater on Friday, September 18, 2026.
 

The free community event will feature the Butler Philharmonic performing the full orchestral score of Encanto live alongside the film, creating a one-of-a-kind outdoor movie night for families, neighbors, and music lovers across the region. The film’s dialogue, songs, and effects will remain part of the movie presentation, while the Philharmonic performs the score live in sync with the film.
 

Conducted by Dr. Scott Woodard, of the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra, the performance represents one of the most ambitious public productions in the Philharmonic’s history and showcases the organization’s artistic strength, technical ability, and continued commitment to serving the community through live music.
 

The performance is made possible by the Reinhold and Emma Schwarz Fund for Music, Dance, and Performance at the Hamilton Community Foundation. Reinhold Schwarz was deeply involved in Hamilton’s music community for decades as a clarinetist, saxophonist, teacher, bandleader, and performer with groups including the Hamilton Symphony Orchestra and Klaberheads. Emma Schwarz shared his love of music and dance, often accompanying him to performances and celebrating the joy that music brought into their lives.
 

“This is exactly the kind of moment that reflects what community philanthropy can make possible,” said John Guidugli, President and CEO of the Foundation. “As the Foundation celebrates 75 years of working alongside donors, nonprofits, and community partners, we are grateful to help bring an experience like this to Hamilton. It honors the Schwarz family’s love of music, celebrates the Butler Philharmonic’s remarkable legacy, and creates a welcoming opportunity for the whole community to gather and enjoy the arts together.”
 

“For 75 years, the Butler Philharmonic has been proud to share live orchestral music with our community,” said Missy Beers, General Manager of the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra. “Performing the score of Encanto live with the film is an exciting artistic challenge and a joyful way to welcome people of all ages into the experience of live music. This experience will allow our musicians to showcase their hard work, while creating unforgettable memories. It is an honor that will have a lasting impact on both our musicians, our program, and our community.”
 

Both the Hamilton Community Foundation and Butler Philharmonic mark their 75th anniversaries in 2026. The organizations have worked together since their earliest years, connected by a shared belief that music, culture, and community gathering places help strengthen Hamilton’s quality of life.
 

The event is being planned in partnership with RiversEdge, Christian’s Corn Stand Jam, the City of Hamilton, and Hamilton Parks Conservancy. Food trucks and beverages will be available for purchase at RiversEdge, as with other events at the venue.
 

The performance is free and open to the public. No registration or ticket is required. Guests are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. The event is expected to begin near sunset around 8pm. In the event of severe weather, the performance will be rescheduled.
 

Event Details

What: Free live orchestrated showing of Disney’s Encanto featuring the Butler Philharmonic
When: Friday, September 18, 2026
Time: Evening, Movie starts around 8pm
Where: RiversEdge Amphitheater, Hamilton, Ohio
Cost: Free, no registration required
Seating: Lawn seating. Guests may bring chairs and blankets.
Food and beverages: Available for purchase onsite
 

About Hamilton Community Foundation

Founded in 1951, the Hamilton Community Foundation has the largest collective impact on quality of life in Hamilton, Ohio. By managing more than 1,000 individual, family, and corporate funds, the Foundation awards millions in grants and scholarships each year. HCF is the largest community foundation in Butler County, with more than $200 million in assets. Learn more at www.hamiltonfoundation.org.
 

About Butler Philharmonic

Founded in 1951, the Butler Philharmonic has enriched the region through live orchestral music, education, and community performances for 75 years. The orchestra continues to create opportunities for people of all ages to experience the power and joy of live music.