Lawrence Power & Aurora Orchestra: In Italy
Be whisked away by Aurora Orchestra’s performance of Berlioz’ vivid Harold in Italy, with dramatisation from violist Lawrence Power and actor Charlotte Ritchie.
At the heart of the programme is Harold in Italy, Hector Berlioz’ vivid evocation of a journey through Italy, scored for solo viola and orchestra.
Commissioned by Paganini in the early 1830s, this piece is a masterpiece in musical storytelling and an extraordinary showcase for Power’s artistry as one of the world’s greatest exponents of his instrument.
Aurora brings its distinctive Orchestral Theatre approach to the piece, incorporating elements of design and staging to further illuminate Berlioz’ score.
Ghosts actor Charlotte Ritchie rejoins Aurora after their 2023 BBC Proms collaboration on Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, this time taking on the role of composer Hector Berlioz in the first-half dramatisation.
In the second half, Aurora presents another evocation of the landscapes of Italy, with a world-first performance from memory of Mendelssohn’s vibrant Fourth Symphony under Principal Conductor Nicholas Collon.
Co-directed by Jane Mitchell and James Bonas. Concept and script by Jane Mitchell.
Lawrence Power is a Southbank Centre Resident Artist for Classical Music 2024/25.
Performers
Aurora Orchestra
Nicholas Collon conductor
Lawrence Power viola
Charlotte Ritchie actor
Repertoire
A musical and dramatic exploration of
Berlioz: Harold en Italie, Op.16
Interval
Mendelssohn: Symphony No.4 in A (Italian) (performed from memory)
Need to know
Find out more about the music with our free programme.
View the programme
Charlotte Ritchie
For your visit
This event is held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall Southbank Centre
The Queen Elizabeth Hall is open from 90 minutes before events start until they finish. It’s closed at all other times.
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The Queen Elizabeth Hall is home to both our second-largest auditorium and the Purcell Room.
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