The Rite of Spring with Circa

Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) presents three outstanding pieces of classical and modernist orchestral work, with a twist – literally!

Debussy’s Prélude à “L’après‑lmidi d’un faune” (Afternoon of a Faun) introduces the concert, followed by Respighi’s Concerto Gregoriano, performed by QSO Artist in Residence, Kristian Winther.

Concluding the Opening Gala is Stravinsky’s riotous masterpiece The Rite of Spring, acrobatically reinterpreted by Circa and Helpmann award‑winning Artistic Director, Yaron Lifschitz.

The Rite of Spring, Igor Stravinsky’s ballet marvel, sent shockwaves through the course of 20th century music.

The Rite of Spring was originally composed for ballet, but Circa has boldly created the world’s first circus interpretation, combining the power of Stravinsky’s music with the thrill of their acrobatic prowess. Rite of Spring unleashes the primal energy that runs through us all. See bodies hurl, flow, twist, pulse and collide in an ecstatic tribal circus ritual.

As a leader in contemporary circus, Circa’s Rite has captivated audiences globally, with performances in cities including Paris, Barcelona, and New York. In search of groundbreaking orchestral sounds, Debussy composed his alluring Prélude à L’après-midi d’un faune. Under the baton of Umberto Clerici, this mythic dream is coloured with hazy impressionist hues.

Inspired by ancient Gregorian chants, Respighi’s Concerto Gregoriano is an unsung beauty of the violin repertoire, a moment of divine contemplation under the bow of QSO’s Artist in Residence, violinist Kristian Winther.

Don’t miss out on what promises to be THE monumental event of Brisbane’s 2025 cultural calendar and book your tickets to The Rite of Spring, running 20-22 February, 2025. Tickets begin at $100. Book here.

The Rite of Spring, Image credit QPAC