The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra has announced a landmark event in Australian cinematic and musical history: the world premiere of The Man from Snowy River in Concert.
In celebration of the enduring legacy of Director George Miller’s iconic Australian film, the live-to-screen performance from the MSO, masterfully conducted by Vanessa Scammell, will showcase the film’s APRA and AFI award-winning score by legendary composer Bruce Rowland.
For the first time since its release in 1982, audiences will experience the powerful score of The Man from Snowy River played live alongside the stunning visuals of this cherished film and the enduring story that has captured the hearts of generations.
The Man from Snowy River in Concert
- Presented in association with Spiritworks and Theatre Tours International
- Dates: Thursday 17 & Friday 18 August, 7.30pm and Saturday 19 August, 3.00pm
- Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
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Stars of the film, Sigrid Thornton and Tom Burlinson, will join the festivities, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, personal experiences, and discussing the lasting impact of this treasured Australian classic.
Based on AB ‘Banjo’ Paterson’s bush poem of the same name, the story follows proud young Jim Craig (Tom Burlinson) who, after the death of his father, sets out to become his own man. Taking a job with horse rancher Harrison (Kirk Douglas), Craig is treated poorly by the more experienced cowboys, but wins the heart of the rancher’s daughter, Jessica (Sigrid Thornton), when he helps her break a high-strung colt and later saves her life. When he’s unfairly blamed for the loss of an expensive horse, Craig fights to restore his honour and prove that he’s worthy of Jessica’s hand.
Sigrid Thornton expressed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event: “The Man from Snowy River was a transformational experience for me in a number of ways. It changed the trajectory of my working life, it enhanced my understanding of filmmaking as storytelling, and it opened my eyes much wider to the magnificence of the Australian landscape.
“I’m very proud to have been part of a film that continues to resonate across the generations, and I’m now especially excited to see the film shown with Bruce Rowland’s marvellous soundtrack played live by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. What a treat!”
Tom Burlinson said: “The experience of playing the title role in The Man from Snowy River kick-started my career and changed my life.”
This celebratory world premiere event provides audiences the opportunity to experience the beloved Australian classic on the big screen, accompanied by the powerful and emotive soundtrack performed by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
Tickets on sale 10am, Thursday 1 June at mso.com.au.
