John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra Holiday Concerts

If the media call is anything to go by, those attending one, several or all of the Australian Pops Orchestra’s concerts over the next fortnight are in for a special treat.

Maestro John Foreman AM is looking to spread joy, happiness and optimism over the festive season.

He will be doing so with his magnificent 40-piece orchestra and a dazzling array of guest artistes, that have trodden the boards on Australian and international stages.

All four concerts over a total of nine performances will be staged at the Melbourne Recital Centre.

First up, at 2pm and again at 7pm on 20^th December is The Great Christmas Singalong with powerhouse diva Silvie Paladino singing traditional and modern carols.

As the title suggests, the audience will get the chance to sing along.

They Sang at Carnegie Hall will feature acclaimed songstress Bernadette Robinson in a homage to the world’s greatest female singers.

Robinson will pay tribute to the likes of Barbara Streisand, Shirley Bassey, Judy Garland, Eartha Kitt, Edith Piaf, Billie Holiday, Dolly Parton and more. 

In a nostalgic celebration, she will bring the magic of New York’s world-renowned venue to Melbourne.

Her first concert will be at 6.30pm on 22^nd December and her second at 2pm on 23^rd December.

Then follows The Idols of Musical Theatre – Rob Mills, Casey Donovan and Paulini – who met John Foreman on the set of Australian Idol 21 years ago.

John was the original musical director of Australian Idol and Mills, Donovan and Paulini have gone on to forge stellar careers in musical theatre.

Their concerts will be at 7pm on 27^th December and at 2pm on 28^th December.

And, finally, John Foreman’s Australian Pops Orchestra will see in the New Year in what has become a tradition over 45 years for the orchestra.

The New Year’s Eve and The Day Before Gala Concerts will be a mix of Broadway classics and orchestral favourites.

Taking centre stage will be the supreme talents of Marina Prior, Lucy Durack and Simon Gleeson, who will be joined by the Dana Jolly Dancers.

The dates and times are as follow: 30^th December at 2pm and 31^st December at 2pm and 8pm.

To book, go to www.apoconcerts.com