


In this world premiere presentation, a captivating silent film by Dutch director Lucas van Woerkum explores the vastness of the cosmos and the intimacy of human experience. More than a visual accompaniment to music, this is a deeply felt journey that expands the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall into a shared space of wonder and reflection. Van Woerkum performs as a cinema soloist, matching his film in real time to the Orchestra’s performance; as Holst’s celestial masterpiece fills the air, the images unfold like a dream – mysterious, luminous, and unforgettable.
Australian composer Nigel Westlake is no stranger to film music, having written award-winning scores for Babe, Paper Planes, Ali’s Wedding and more. His percussion concerto When the Clock Strikes Me…, written for our Principal Percussion Rebecca Lagos, sets the stage for a journey through space and time in a wonderfully entertaining program, led by Conductor in Residence Benjamin Northey.
1st May, 2026
3rd May, 2026

Complete access information for all Sydney Opera House theatres may be found here
There are a number of wheelchair and companion seating locations in all theatres. To book accessible seating contact Box Office on +61 2 9250 7777
GETTING TO THE VENUE:
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Sydney Opera House is a six-minute walk to Circular Quay which is regularly served by public buses, trains and ferries to Circular Quay.
BY BICYCLE: Bicycle parking is located beneath the Monumental Steps.
BY CAR: Wilson Parking owns and operates the public Sydney Opera House Car Park, which is located at 2 Macquarie Street (Northern end). The car park is open 24 hours, 7 days a week, and has undercover access to the Sydney Opera House Lower Concourse.
Further information of getting to the Sydney Opera House can be found here.
Conductor: Benjamin Northey
Percussion: Rebecca Lagos
Director, Symphonic Cinema: Lucas van Woerkum
Actors on film: Emma Thompson and Greg Wise
Dancers on film: Arts Umbrella Vancouver
With: Sydney Philharmonia Choirs
PROGRAM
IVES The Unanswered Question
Nigel WESTLAKE When the Clock Strikes Me: Concerto for Percussion and Orchestra (revised 2025)
HOLST The Planets (with Symphonic Cinema)
Nigel Westlake’s 2025 revision of When the Clock Strikes Me for the Sydney Symphony Orchestra was supported by Geoff Stearn.
Symphonic Cinema: The Planets is at Sydney's Concert Hall | Sydney Opera House, which is located at Bennelong Point, Sydney, 2000.
Symphonic Cinema: The Planets tickets start at $75.
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