PORTLAND — The Portland Symphony Orchestra invites you to get into the award-season spirit with the Pops! Concert: A Night at the Movies. Special guest conductor Carl Topilow will lead the orchestra in two performances the weekend of the 85th annual Academy Awards. Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23 and for 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 24 at Portland’s Merrill Auditorium.

The concert will feature musical selections from film favorites including "The Wizard of Oz," "Rocky," "The Godfather," "ET," "Harry Potter" and many more. Adding to the Oscars’ spirit, attendees are encouraged to dress like Hollywood movie stars and experience the PSO red carpet. During the performance, PSO will host movie trivia with a chance to win tickets to upcoming PSO performances.

Topilow, also known as the “clarinet-toting conductor,” is renowned worldwide for his versatility, whether he is holding a conductor's baton or his trademark red clarinet. He is a multitalented virtuoso equally at home in classical and popular music both as conductor and instrumentalist. His unique approach to pops programming includes extensive audience involvement and true showmanship. As a guest conductor, Topilow has appeared around the world with nearly 100 orchestras in 30 states in the U.S. and countries across the globe.

In addition to his busy conducting schedule, Topilow avidly pursues his passion for performing as clarinetist. He often performs with his brother Arthur, a pianist, and the duo can be heard on three CDs: "Come in from the Cold," "A View from the Top" and "Music of America."

Tickets are available through PortTIX at 207-842-0800 or www.porttix.com. Tickets may also be purchased at the PortTIX box office at Merill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St., Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m.