Bananarama, the iconic pop duo, will headline the 80s Classical concert in Leeds’ Millennium Square on Saturday, 20 July 2024. They will be accompanied by the 50-piece Symphony Orchestra of Opera North, creating a one-of-a-kind experience that combines their chart-topping hits with orchestral grandeur.
Who is headlining the 80s Classical concert in Leeds’ Millennium Square?
Bananarama, the legendary pop duo, is set to headline the 80s Classical concert in Leeds’ Millennium Square on Saturday, 20 July 2024. This anticipated event will feature the iconic group performing their chart-topping hits, accompanied by the 50-piece symphony Orchestra of Opera North.
The Return of 80s Classical
Millennium Square is set to rekindle the flamboyant spirit of the 80s, as it becomes the centrepiece of Leeds’ vibrant cultural tapestry with the return of the 80s Classical concert. Scheduled for Saturday, 20 July 2024, this event will mark the fifth edition of the acclaimed series. The previous concerts have consistently drawn large crowds, and the 2024 rendition is expected to uphold this tradition. The square will transform into a festive beacon, echoing the soundtrack of a decade that has remained influential through the years.
Tickets ignite the anticipation for an unforgettable journey through time, becoming available from 10 am on Friday, 17 November. They can be procured through two principal platforms: millsqleeds.com (0113 376 0318) and opera north.co.uk (0113 223 3600). A spectrum of ticket options caters to a variety of preferences, from standing tickets priced at £36.85 to a limited number of reserved seating arrangements available at £45.65, with an option for a VIP/express bar upgrade for an extra £11.00.
The stage for the 80s Classical is set within an especially curated outdoor arena, which will open its arms to attendees from 6.30 pm. The atmosphere prior to the main event will be charged by DJs starting from 6.45 pm, paving the way for the headlining performances commencing at 8.15 pm. The event promises to be both inclusive and accessible, featuring a well-equipped site with amenities such as a licensed bar, diverse street food offerings, a raised viewing platform, and appropriate facilities for disabled patrons.
Bananarama: Chart-Topping Icons Take Center Stage
Bananarama, the iconic pop duo, is poised to headline the 80s Classical concert, stirring the hearts of music enthusiasts with a powerful blast from the past. Comprising Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward, this legendary ensemble has not only achieved commendable success but has also marked their place in history. Their record-breaking achievements include two Band Aid appearances and a Guinness World Record for the most charting singles by a female band worldwide. With an expansive career spanning over four decades, Bananarama’s influence on the music industry and pop culture remains indelible.
Their discography spans 12 studio albums and over 30 million records sold internationally. Highlights of their career include four US Billboard Top 10 hits and an iconic No. 1 with “Venus.” In celebration of their 40th anniversary, the duo expressed their enthusiasm: “We are so excited to be involved in such a unique and exciting concert which is a fitting way to continue our 40th anniversary celebrations,” said Sara Dallin. Keren Woodward added, “Leeds is such a vibrant city to visit and perform in, and we can’t wait to take to the stage in the iconic Millennium Square with such a talented array of musicians on what is going to be a truly magical occasion for everyone.”
The innovative dimension of the 2024 concert is the collaboration with Leeds’ very own Orchestra of Opera North. The addition of the 50-piece symphony orchestra promises to elevate Bananarama’s chart-topping hits like never before. Leeds’ musical landscape will be enriched by this fusion, creating an immersive experience that transcends the typical concert format.
Orchestrating a Musical Phenomenon
At the helm of this creative fusion of pop and symphony is the esteemed composer and conductor Cliff Masterson, along with musical director Steve Anderson. The duo brings with them a rich history of musical excellence. Their expertise and vision are anticipated to suture the audience into the fabric of the 80s, resuscitating the epoch’s anthems with innovative arrangements and orchestral grandeur. “Everyone knows the iconic songs of Bananarama as true legends of such a generation-defining era and we are so thrilled and grateful to be trusted with the responsibility of re-imagining such cherished songs,” Cliff Masterson remarked on the project.
Anderson, recently involved in producing Kylie Minogue’s Las Vegas residency show, expressed his excitement: “We’re absolutely delighted to be able to announce and welcome Bananarama into the 80s Classical family, and we can’t wait for everyone to see them perform with a live orchestra for the very first time.” The Orchestra of Opera North, renowned for its unique role in both opera and concert performances, will bring a distinct dynamic to the event, embracing a commitment to educational and community projects. The collaboration is set to foster an engaging and educational atmosphere, welcoming seasoned aficionados and new audiences alike.
As part of the grand Millennium Square Summer Series, the event takes pride in its array of live outdoor music concerts. The 80s Classical is just one jewel in the crown of the summer-long celebration. More announcements are on the horizon, promising to reveal additional guest artists joining the lineup. Detailed event and venue information, including ticketing and accessibility details, are available on www.millsqleeds.com.
The upcoming 80s Classical event is not just a concert; it is a cultural touchstone. It invites the city of Leeds to indulge in a nostalgia-packed evening, reliving the eclectic and vibrant era of the 80s, all under the starry canopy of Millennium Square.
- Bananarama, the iconic pop duo, will headline the 80s Classical concert in Leeds’ Millennium Square on Saturday, 20 July 2024.
- The concert will feature Bananarama performing their chart-topping hits accompanied by the 50-piece Symphony Orchestra of Opera North.
- The 80s Classical concert is part of the Millennium Square Summer Series and marks the fifth edition of the acclaimed series.
- Tickets for the concert will be available from 10 am on Friday, 17 November, with a variety of ticket options to cater to different preferences.
- The concert will create an immersive experience by combining the pop hits of Bananarama with innovative arrangements and orchestral grandeur.