Symphonic Cinema: The Planets presented by Sydney Symphony Orchestra tickets
About Symphonic Cinema: The Planets
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.
Categories
Start date
1st May, 2026
End date
3rd May, 2026
Venue
Concert Hall | Sydney Opera House
Accessibility
Step-free access with lifts and wheelchair seating, accessible bathrooms across multiple levels, assistive listening, captioned and audio-described performances, and registered service animals are welcome throughout the Sydney Opera House.
Directions
BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Sydney Opera House is short six-minute walk from Circular Quay, with frequent trains, buses and ferries. An accessible shuttle also operates between Circular Quay and the venue for those who require assistance.
BY BICYCLE: Bike parking is available beneath the Monumental Steps.
BY CAR: Parking is available at Wilson Parking Sydney Opera House Car Park, open 24/7 with undercover access to the Lower Concourse. Accessible parking spaces are also available on site.
More information about Symphonic Cinema: The Planets
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.
Frequently asked questions
Which theatre is Symphonic Cinema: The Planets at?
Symphonic Cinema: The Planets is at Sydney's Concert Hall | Sydney Opera House, which is located at Bennelong Point, Sydney, 2000.
How much are tickets for Symphonic Cinema: The Planets?
Symphonic Cinema: The Planets tickets start at $75.
How do you get tickets for Symphonic Cinema: The Planets?
Check the top of this page for current availability on Symphonic Cinema: The Planets tickets on TodayTix.
