Alfie Boe to Headline All Things Orchestral at Roundhay Festival on 5 July

Exciting news has arrived for music lovers in Leeds! The American Express Presents Roundhay Festival has announced that the acclaimed tenor Alfie Boe, OBE, will headline the All Things Orchestral event on Sunday, 5 July. This special concert will take place in the beautiful surroundings of Roundhay Park, marking the festival's inaugural year.

All Things Orchestral

All Things Orchestral promises to be a spectacular live orchestral experience, showcasing the talent of the Hallé Orchestra, which will be conducted by the skilled Stephen Bell. The event will be hosted by the well-known TV and radio presenter Myleene Klass, MBE, who is also a classically trained musician and bestselling author. Together, they will guide the audience through a musical journey that celebrates both classic and contemporary pieces, including beloved cinematic classics.

Affordable Tickets for Everyone

One of the festival's main goals is to make orchestral music accessible to everyone, especially as many orchestras have struggled to attract audiences in recent years. Tickets for All Things Orchestral will start at just £14.95, with family rates available from £9.95, making it an affordable option for families and individuals alike. This approach aims to introduce classical music to new audiences and remind everyone of its powerful and moving nature.

Alfie Boe: A Musical Journey

Alfie Boe is not just any singer; he is one of Britain's most celebrated tenors, known for his rich and powerful voice. His journey began in Fleetwood, Lancashire, where he initially trained as a car mechanic. While working in a garage, he entertained his colleagues with operatic arias, which sparked his passion for music. This led him to study at prestigious institutions, including the Royal College of Music, and eventually perform at renowned venues like the Royal Opera House. Boe's career took off with his role as Rodolfo in the Broadway production of La Bohème, which earned him a Tony Award. He later became famous for his portrayal of Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, a performance that solidified his reputation as one of the greatest interpreters of the character. His career has since included numerous performances across the globe, including in the US, Europe, and Australia.

Celebrating Classical Music

The Roundhay Festival aims to celebrate the beauty of classical music in a stunning open-air setting.

Lucy Noble, Senior Vice President of UK Venues at AEG Presents, expressed her excitement about bringing All Things Orchestral to Leeds for the first time:

These concerts are all about making orchestral music accessible and welcoming to everyone. We’re proud to present an outstanding line-up of world-class musicians in such a beautiful open-air setting.”

This sentiment highlights the festival's commitment to creating a welcoming environment for both seasoned classical fans and those new to the genre. The Hallé Orchestra, founded in 1858, is the UK’s longest-established professional symphony orchestra and will travel from Manchester to perform at Roundhay Park. Their participation adds a significant layer of prestige to the event, ensuring that attendees will experience a world-class performance.

Festival Highlights

The Roundhay Festival will take place over a weekend filled with musical entertainment:

• - Friday, 3 July: Pitbull will kick off the festivities.

• - Saturday, 4 July: Lewis Capaldi will take the stage.

• - Sunday, 5 July: The weekend will conclude with Alfie Boe and the Hallé Orchestra at All Things Orchestral.

This lineup promises to attract a diverse audience, bringing people together to enjoy music in one of Leeds's most iconic parks. The festival is a perfect opportunity for families, friends, and music lovers to create lasting memories while enjoying exceptional performances.

Tickets and Information

Tickets for the Roundhay Festival are on sale now, and they can be purchased through the official website, www.roundhayfestival.com. Various ticket options are available.

As the festival approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a memorable celebration of music in Leeds. With the stunning backdrop of Roundhay Park and a lineup of incredible talent, the Roundhay Festival is set to become a highlight of the summer cultural calendar.