Melbourne’s Festive Season Shines with John Foreman and the Australian Pops Orchestra
As the festive season is now in full swing Melbourne is in its magical embrace, the city has come alive with Christmas lights, gatherings, and an unmistakable sense of celebration. And this year, the excitement reaches new heights with John Foreman at the helm of the Australian Pops Orchestra, delivering a spectacular Holiday Concerts series at the renowned Melbourne Recital Centre.

John Foreman, one of Australia’s most versatile and accomplished conductors, musical directors, pianists, and composers, has been a pivotal figure in the country’s entertainment landscape. Since taking the reins of the Australian Pops Orchestra in 2019, Foreman has showcased his signature flair for blending world-class musicianship with a vibrant audience connection. This festive season, an incredible line-up of stars promises to create a truly unforgettable experience.

“Music has always been about bringing people together and celebrating with friends, and that’s especially true at this time of year,” says Foreman, encapsulating the spirit of the season. “With the Australian Pops Orchestra, I wanted to create concerts that celebrate the joy of the holidays, the thrill of live performance, and the incredible talent we have in this country.”

What better way to embrace the festive spirit than with the enchanting voices of Australia’s finest talents? The Holiday Concerts will feature the remarkable Silvie Paladino, the extraordinary Bernadette Robinson, the powerhouse Casey Donovan, the charismatic Rob Mills, and the soulful Paulini. Adding to the glamour are beloved performers Marina Prior, Lucy Durack, and Simon Gleeson, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. With friendships spanning decades, the camaraderie among these artists is palpable, ensuring that each concert will be a joyful, uplifting celebration of music and connection.

Across four unique performances, audiences will be treated to the Australian Pops Orchestra, a 40-piece orchestra delivering soaring orchestral arrangements of timeless holiday classics and beloved songs. The Holiday Concerts series is a festive tradition in the making and the perfect way to create unforgettable memories as the year draws to a close.

With Foreman at the helm, the stage will come alive with joy, laughter, and the spirit of togetherness that defines the holiday season. So, grab your loved ones, and get amongst the action at the Melbourne Recital Centre.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
THE GREAT CHRISTMAS SINGALONG STARRING SILVIE PALADINO
DECEMBER 20
THEY SANG AT CARNEGIE HALL STARRING BERNADETTE ROBINSON
DECEMBER 22 & 23
THE IDOLS OF MUSICAL THEATRE STARRING
ROB MILLS, CASEY DONOVAN & PAULINI
DECEMBER 27 & 28
NEW YEAR’S EVE & THE DAY BEFORE GALA CONCERTS STARRING
MARINA PRIOR, LUCY DURACK & SIMON GLEESON
DECEMBER 30 & 31
By Melinda Sullivan
Photography by Heidi Victoria