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London Symphony Orchestra/Christophers

Haydn The Creation NB change of conductor

,Barbican Hall
Barbican tower against orange background

Let there be light! The LSO toasts the Barbican’s 40th birthday with Haydn’s Creation and pre-concert performances on the foyers showcasing a new generation of performers and creators (3 Mar).

Out of chaos comes wonder; from darkness, light. Haydn’s oratorio The Creation is more than just a gloriously tuneful retelling of the Book of Genesis. Inspired by Haydn’s visits to London and the optimism of the Enlightenment, it’s a celebration of the act of creativity itself, overflowing with majesty, humour and the sheer, irrepressible joy of life.

What better way to mark the 40th anniversary of our home, the Barbican, than with the full London Symphony Chorus, an unsurpassable team of soloists, and music that – 224 years after its premiere in Vienna – sounds as fresh as the day it was first imagined.

Tagged with: Classical music London Symphony Orchestra Multibuy – Jan–Jul 2022 London Symphony Orchestra

Please note that for these performances the Chorus will be positioned in the stalls, in front of the stage.

The performance is c. 1 hour 50 mins with no interval

NB Change of conductor
Sir Simon Rattle had a minor surgical procedure earlier this month which regrettably has not healed as quickly as expected. To allow proper time for recovery he has agreed with his doctors to cancel his conducting engagements with the LSO of Haydn’s Creation on Thursday 3 and Sunday 6 March. The London Symphony Orchestra is delighted to announce that Harry Christophers has agreed to step in to conduct the concerts. We all wish Sir Simon a speedy recuperation.

Programme

  • Joesph Haydn   The Creation (sung in English)

Performers

  • London Symphony Orchestra  
  • Harry Christophers   conductor
  • Lucy Crowe   soprano
  • Andrew Staples   tenor
  • Roderick Williams   baritone
  • London Symphony Chorus  
  • Simon Halsey   chorus director

Pre-concert foyer performances

Thursday 3 March from 6.30pm

Join us before the concert for a series of free live performances on the foyers around the Centre, in celebration of the shared creativity of the last 40 years, and far into the future. Featuring fanfares by Cassie Kinoshi, written specially to celebrate the anniversary; the LSO Percussion Ensemble with Ayanna Witter-Johnson; the young musicians of the LSO East London Academy and Classical Meets Jazz; performances by LSO Create, a group for adults with learning disabilities, their supporters and carers; and the voices of the LSO Community Choir. Visit the LSO Digital guide for full information on performances, timings and locations.

Complimentary drinks

All ticket holders for our concert are invited to celebrate the Barbican’s 40th Anniversary with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. We are delighted to be working with Barbican Bars to offer this as a small gesture of appreciation for the support of our audience over the years. We very much look forward to toasting this special moment in the Orchestra’s and the Barbican’s history with you!

Please visit the Circle bar and dedicated pop-up bar on the Ground Floor, or the Theatre Bar and Stalls bar on Level Minus 1 before the concert and show your concert ticket to receive your complimentary glass of sparkling wine, or non-alcoholic alternative.

Conditions:

  • Available pre-concert only, from 6.30pm
  • Drinks are not allowed in the concert hall, so please arrive in good time to enjoy your drink
  • Offer is limited to 1 drink per ticket holder only
  • Non-alcoholic alternatives will only be available from the Stalls bar or Circle bar 
  • Sparkling wine available to over 18s only

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.