Darwin Symphony Orchestra to light up CDU Amphitheatre

Charles Darwin University (CDU) will join forces with Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) to hold a performance at the University’s Casuarina campus this Saturday night.

The two organisations will present a ‘Sunset Symphony”, the first performance to be held on campus in several years.

The 60-piece orchestra comprised of string, woodwind, brass and percussion instruments will be performing classical pieces including Prokofiev’s enchanting Romeo and Juliet and Bizet’s Carmen.

Concertmaster Tara Murphy will feature as a soloist when the orchestra performs Massanet’s Thais: Meditation. Familiar hits such as the score from Badelt’s iconic Pirates of the Caribbean will also be performed at the concert which will be held at CDU’s Amphitheatre at the Casuarina campus.

CDU’s Academy of the Arts Director Amanda Morris said it was a pleasure to collaborate with music colleagues from Darwin Symphony Orchestra.

“Staff and students of CDU’s Academy of the Arts are excited about the performance and the opportunity for future collaborations,” Dr Morris said.  

“What a wonderful way to welcome the community from across Darwin and celebrate the start of the dry season. We look forward to enjoying a fabulous musical experience on campus.”

DSO which is comprised of over 90 volunteer musicians has been a treasured institution in Darwin, reflecting the diverse and vibrant community for over 30 years. CDU is the Principal Sponsor of DSO. 

DSO Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Jonathan Tooby said he was excited to present an evening of beautiful music to the Darwin community.

“We are thrilled to be performing at the CDU Amphitheatre and look forward to celebrating the wonderful relationship DSO shares with this extraordinary University,” Mr Tooby said.

“Throughout the concert there will be passion, pomp and unparalleled beauty and we are so excited to presenting this thrilling program.” 

“I hope to see lots of people from the community bringing their family, friends, and a picnic rug to listen to the orchestra under the stars.” 

Sunset Symphony will be held at the Amphitheatre at CDU’s Casuarina campus on Saturday May 20. Audience members are encouraged to pack a picnic with a range of local food trucks in attendance.