Evocative tour-de-force

Be uplifted by the rhythmic richness of the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra when – for the first time – it joins forces with powerhouse aerialists from Legs On The Wall for the thrilling concert Next Chapters at the leading North Shore cultural hub, The Concourse.

The adventurous concert, presented by the Chatswood Cultural Program, comprises three Australian composers, one moody Russian, a world premiere, a symphony orchestra, a saxophone quartet and Australia’s leading physical theatre troupe.

Be transfixed by the breathtaking aerial feats of Legs On The Wall and the evocative, dance-like music of Holy Dreaming by the orchestra’s composer-in-residence Alice Chance, inspired by the words of A Thanksgiving for Australia penned by Reverend Lenore Parker, the first Indigenous person to be ordained a Deacon in the Anglican Church, and; Dmitri Shostakovich’s courageous and exuberant, seldom-performed Symphony No.9..

Next Chapters also comprises Elena Kats-Chernin’s shimmering score of vivacity and soulful lyricism Five Chapters. It will be performed by the orchestra under the esteemed baton of Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith, alongside Australia’s foremost saxophone ensemble Nexas Quartet, and; the world premiere of The Phoenix by one of Australia’s rising stars Joseph Newton, the winner of the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s Young Composer’s Award. The orchestra gratefully acknowledges benefactor Mark Wakeley’s generous support of the award in memory of Steven Alward.

Virtuoso musicianship and stirring physical theatre combine in the captivating collaboration and concert. Two performances only. The Concourse, Chatswood. Saturday 22 May at 7pm and Sunday 23 May at 2pm.. Book at ticketek.com.au