SYDNEY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: Tribute to Bacharach

The Sydney Symphony Orchestra returns to the Sydney Coliseum Theatre this December, presenting a tribute to the legendary songwriter Burt Bacharach. The one-night-only performance, titled What the World Needs Now: A Celebration of Burt Bacharach, is scheduled for Saturday, December 14 2024, at 7:30 pm.

This concert marks the orchestra's third appearance at the Coliseum, following their inaugural performance at the venue's opening in December 2019 and a subsequent show in 2022. The 2,000-seat theatre, developed by West HQ, has quickly established itself as a significant cultural venue for Greater Sydney since its debut.

Under the baton of respected conductor Benjamin Northey, the Sydney Symphony Orchestra will accompany a roster of accomplished Australian vocalists. The lineup features David Campbell, known for his versatility across theatre, cabaret, and concert performances; jazz vocalist Emma Pask; musical theatre star Elise McCann; and the rising talent Thndo.

The program promises to showcase some of Bacharach's most enduring compositions, including What the World Needs Now, Alfie, Walk on By, I Say a Little Prayer, and That's What Friends Are For. These songs, which have become staples of the American songbook, span several decades and have been recorded by a diverse array of artists.

David Campbell, an ARIA-winning artist who has previously performed at the Coliseum, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming show. "Burt Bacharach is one of the great songwriters of the past hundred years - I grew up on his music, listening to great artists across decades sing his many, many hits," he said. "What the World Needs Now is more music and song, and I cannot wait to sing some of my favourites from this legendary musician."

The concert, directed by Executive Producer Mark Sutcliffe, represents a continuation of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra's efforts to reach audiences beyond its traditional home at the Sydney Opera House. This aligns with West HQ's mission to bring diverse, high-quality entertainment to Greater Western Sydney.

Richard Errington, CEO of West HQ, highlighted the significance of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra's return, stating, "We have been the heart of entertainment for Sydney's west for much of our 60-year history, and we are pleased to be continuing this with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra presenting a spectacular night of contemporary entertainment to honour one of the greatest musicians of our time."


This performance also carries a touch of historical resonance. Some artists who recorded Bacharach's hits, such as Cilla Black, had previously performed at the venue when it was known as Rooty Hill RSL, creating a link between the past and present of this evolving entertainment hub.

For the Sydney Symphony Orchestra this concert represents part of their broader mission to perform over 180 concerts annually, reaching more than 350,000 people. While primarily resident at the Sydney Opera House, performances like this one at the Coliseum Theatre demonstrate the orchestra's commitment to engaging with audiences across various venues throughout Sydney and regional New South Wales.

When: Saturday, 14 December 2024, 7:30 pm
Where: Sydney Coliseum Theatre, Rooty Hill
Performers: David Campbell, Emma Pask, Elise McCann, Thndo
Orchestra: Sydney Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Benjamin Northey
Tickets and more info: https://sydneycoliseum.com.au/whats-on/what-the-world-needs-now/



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