Sydney Symphony Under the Stars: Pictures in the Sky

Overview

It's a rare treat to see classical favourites performed by world-class musicians in a beautiful setting. And it's even rarer for that experience to be completely free — but that's exactly what you get at Sydney Symphony Under the Stars.

Each year the renowned orchestra brings its rapturous performances to Parramatta Park, with the park's rolling green hills acting as a backdrop to a fantastic free program. Appearing free of charge and unticketed as part of Sydney Festival, the Sydney Symphony will perform a sparkling new program of tunes ranging from beloved movie themes to original works from the great composer, multi-instrumentalist and didgeridoo virtuoso, William Barton.

Victor Frankowski

Barton himself will be in attendance performing on the didgeridoo, joined by Anoushka Shankar on the sitar, as well as Aunty Delmae Barton, Véronique Serret and Iva Davies AM among the standout cast of musicians.

Expect a cut from John Williams' score to E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial, James Horner's main title from Apollo 13, an arrangement of Icehouse's 'Great Southern Land' and Strauss' 'Blue Danube'.

Pack a picnic basket and your favourite rug before heading down early to nab a spot in front of the huge stage located at Parramatta Park's The Crescent. Then sit back, relax and be treated to a world-class performance from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra conducted by Benjamin Northey, building to the grand finale of a thunderous firework display lighting up the night's sky.

Starting at 8pm on Saturday, January 20, the event is family-friendly — and spots are first-come-first-serve with no online registrations.

Top images: Jamie Williams