The Big Purple Marching Band and the Bear marching band from the University of Central Arkansas joined together for a halftime performance at last Saturday’s football game.

At home games the opposing team sometimes brings a smaller version of their marching band that plays in the stands as a pep band. Central Arkansas decided to bring their entire marching band on Saturday. “For any home game, the opposing team marching band is free to come to the game, and we are excited to host them and have them there,” said Dr. Steven Ward, director of orchestra and bands.

The idea of both marching bands performing together was set up by director of the Big Purple Band, Dr. Brandon Houghtalen, and Central Arkansas director of the Bear Marching Band, Dr. Brantley Douglas.

“They have been working closely together to coordinate everything,” said Ward.

The Central Arkansas Bear Marching Band and the Big Purple Band rehearsed together on Saturday morning before the game to make sure everything was in sync. Each band performed a shortened version of their regular halftime performances. The separate performances began with the Bear marching band, then the Big Purple band performed their solo performance. The Central Arkansas marching band then joined ACU’s marching band on the field to close up the halftime show, and they performed “God Bless America” together.

“Again, we are always very excited to host the marching band from another university we are playing,” Ward said.

The football game ended with a final score of 58-27, another ACU loss. ACU is now 0-5 on the season and 0-3 in conference play. Central Arkansas improved to 4-1 on the season 3-0 in the Southland. The Wildcats will host Lamar next Saturday at 6 p.m.