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Bernstein Symphony No 2 and Wonderful Town

London Symphony Orchestra/Sir Simon Rattle

,Barbican Hall
Photo of Sir Simon Rattle conducting

Sir Simon Rattle presents a double-bill of works by Leonard Bernstein, to celebrate the centenary of the Orchestra’s former President.

Rattle is joined by pianist Krystian Zimerman for the symphony inspired by W H Auden’s ambitious book-length poem, The Age of Anxiety, which Bernstein considered ‘one of the most shattering examples of virtuosity in the history of English poetry’. It’s an eclectic set of variations for piano and orchestra, following four strangers as they struggle to combat their loneliness and isolation in an increasingly industrialised world.

One of Bernstein’s lesser-known musicals, Wonderful Town is nevertheless a swinging, bluesy, fun and uplifting piece, with five Tony Awards to its name. A sunny and good-humoured work, it tells the story of two sisters seeking success and bright lights from their basement apartment in New York City.

Tagged with: Classical music London Symphony Orchestra 2017-18 Multibuy Bernstein 100 More...

Programme

  • Bernstein   Symphony No 2, ‘The Age Of Anxiety’
  • Bernstein   Wonderful Town (concert version)

Performers

  • Sir Simon Rattle   conductor
  • Krystian Zimerman   piano
  • Danielle de Niese   Eileen
  • Alysha Umphress   Ruth
  • Nathan Gunn   Bob Baker
  • Duncan Rock   Wreck
  • David Butt Philip   Lonigan
  • Ashley Riches   Guide/First Editor/Frank
  • Michael Baxter   Fourth Cop
  • Kevin Brewis   Third Cop/First Man/Cadet/Villager
  • Stephen John Davis   First Cop
  • Flora Dawson   Violet
  • Soophia Foroughi   Second Woman
  • Andrew Keelan   Second Cop/Second Man
  • Jane Quinn   First Woman
  • London Symphony Chorus  
  • Simon Halsey   chorus director
  • London Symphony Orchestra  

Barbican Hall

Location
The Barbican Hall is located within the main Barbican building. Head to Level G and follow the signs to find your seating level. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
​​​​​​​The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.