In a world-first exclusive, the Queensland Government’s Super Star fund will bring renowned physicist Brian Cox to Brisbane to lead a Journey Through the Cosmos with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Arts Minister Ian Walker said Journey Through the Cosmos was a great synergy of music, voice, science and film in an unforgettable multi-sensory experience from 6-9 November 2014.
“Leading the production will be international rock star particle physicist Professor Brian Cox, the presenter of the global smash–hit series Wonders of the Universe,” Mr Walker said.
“Journey Through the Cosmos includes a world premiere and features a full orchestral and choral performance of Holst’s The Planets’ Suite with cosmic image projections created by Brian Cox as a star–studded backdrop.”
Mr Walker said Journey Through the Cosmos would include a live simulcast to regional venues throughout Queensland, with lectures, a recital and a dedicated schools program as part of the Super Star initiative.
“The Super Star fund is a $3 million commitment over four years to bring international artists to Queensland, cultivate local talent and build local capacity,” he said.
“Journey Through the Cosmos will be a major drawcard for interstate visitors and will help the Newman Government achieve its goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020.”
CEO of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra Sophie Galaise is thrilled the QSO is presenting this world-first for Queensland.
“This initiative is part of the QSO’s ongoing commitment to provide a gateway to great musical experiences. Our fine orchestra continues to offer diverse programs and some of the best national and international artists to Queensland audiences,” Ms Galaise said.
Journey Through the Cosmos joins other Super Star projects including an exclusive production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, directed by internationally-acclaimed Shakespearean ‘super star’ director Michael Attenborough presented in March – April 2014 by Queensland Theatre Company, in collaboration with Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe.
The first Super Star project is an exclusive season of Kenneth MacMillan’s production of the ballet Romeo and Juliet at QPAC from 27 June – 5 July 2014, presented by the Queensland Ballet and featuring internationally acclaimed dancers Tamara Rojo and Carlos Acosta.
Journey Through the Cosmos will be presented at QPAC. For information: www.qso.com.au