28 June 2004

MEDIA RELEASE

MUSIC SPECTACULAR CONTINUES IN ADELAIDE

The Cabaret Festival may be over, but the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra isn’t letting music enthusiasts rest just yet.

The visually impressive Ultimate Symphonic Spectacular on 17 July is a musical extravaganza featuring almost 400 performers, including Catherine Lambert performing Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, squeezing on stage to power out a range of classic hits during a three-part concert.

Last year nearly 5000 people were thrilled by the first Ultimate Symphonic Spectacular which this year returns to the Adelaide Entertainment Centre with even more glitz and spectacle.

ASO Chief Executive Officer Nick Ladd says the Spectacular is a sensational encore to follow on from the recent Cabaret Festival.

“Adelaide offers so many dynamic events and festivals and the Ultimate Symphonic Spectacular is just another high point in the city’s entertainment calendar,” says Mr Ladd.

The spectacular special effects performance of orchestral masterpieces will feature the best of the 80-piece Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, supported by a huge cast of more than 300 singers including vocalist and Lost in Translation film-star Catherine Lambert who will sing a sensational rendition of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody.

Mezzo-soprano Elizabeth Campbell plus the massed voices of the Australian Girls Choir and the Adelaide Philharmonia Chorus will lend support to class acts throughout the three-part concert.

In an even greater visually spectacular performance than last year, classics including Ravel’s Bolero – made famous by ice-skating duo Torvill and Dean – and Prokofiev’s Montagues and Capulets from Romeo and Juliet, are all conducted by the ASO’s new Music Director Arvo Volmer and hosted by the entertaining Andrew Horabin.

The program will bring the audience to its feet in "Last Night of the Proms" style, with some of the more traditional and stirring pieces such as Land of Hope and Glory, Jerusalem, Rule Britannia and much more. This is where you can dress up, wear your silly hat, bring flags and streamers and unleash your enthusiasm.

There's something in this selection of classical blockbusters for everyone. It’s an audiovisual extravaganza on a massive scale and a unique orchestral experience not to be missed! Book now at BASS 131 246 or www.bass.net.au

For media comment contact Nick Ladd on (08) 8233 6230

For further information contact Mardi Westphalen, Michels Warren on 0402 452 364.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

What: Australian Girls Choir (40 members) performing Spanish, African and Australian songs supported by Catherine Lambert and the Flamenco dance group

When: 12.30pm sharp

Friday 2 July 2004

Where: Gawler Place Canopy, Rundle Mall

Media interviews with Catherine Lambert will be available immediately following the 20 minute performance.

Contact: Mardi Westphalen, Michels Warren on 0402 452 364.