The West Australian Symphony Orchestra has responded to overwhelming public demand by adding an extra night to its highly anticipated 2026 season launch program. This expansion underscores the continued success of the orchestra's temporary relocation to Winthrop Hall while the Perth Concert Hall undergoes renovations.
Third Performance Added for Popular Opening Program
Due to exceptional ticket sales, WASO management has scheduled an additional performance of the season-opening concert on March 5, 2026. The program will now run for three consecutive nights from March 5 to March 7, allowing more music enthusiasts to experience this special event.
The centerpiece of the evening is Tchaikovsky's beloved Violin Concerto, featuring internationally acclaimed soloist Sergej Krylov under the baton of conductor Lawrence Renes. This major work will be complemented by Mozart's spirited overture from The Magic Flute and highlights from Prokofiev's dramatic Romeo and Juliet suite.
Orchestra Leadership Celebrates Audience Enthusiasm
WASO's Director of Programming and Engagement, Evan Kennea, expressed delight at the public response, noting that this follows similar success with last season's opening featuring Beethoven's Fifth Symphony.
"We're delighted to announce a third performance of Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto, a program that has already generated incredible enthusiasm from music lovers across Perth," Kennea said. "Adding this extra performance gives even more people the chance to experience a truly memorable evening of brilliant music led by Lawrence Renes and featuring the remarkable international violinist Sergej Krylov."
"We're thrilled to extend the season and welcome an even bigger audience to Winthrop Hall."
Strategic Venue Adaptation During Renovations
The decision to add a third performance serves a practical purpose beyond meeting demand. While Winthrop Hall's capacity of approximately 900 seats is significantly smaller than Perth Concert Hall's 1,500 seats, the extra date enables WASO to accommodate a similar overall audience size across multiple performances.
This strategic approach helps maintain the orchestra's subscriber base and financial stability during the temporary venue change. The orchestra plans to return to the renovated Perth Concert Hall in 2028, coinciding with WASO's centenary celebrations.
Upcoming WASO Performances in February
Before the March season launch, WASO has several significant performances scheduled as part of Perth Festival and other initiatives:
- February 12: Associate Concertmaster Riley Skevington directs Echoes Through Time at St Mary's Cathedral, featuring works from Henry Purcell to contemporary composer Melody Etvos.
- February 17-21: Mark Coughlan conducts Philip Glass's The Trial at Forrest Chase, an outdoor production based on Kafka's novel starring Jarred Wall.
- February 27-28: Benjamin Northey conducts Mayhem and Rapture at Studio Underground featuring mezzo-soprano Jessica Aszodi and works by Holly Harrison, John Adams, and Osvaldo Golijov.
The orchestra also launches its Underground Series at the State Theatre Centre this month, demonstrating WASO's commitment to diverse programming across multiple Perth venues during the Concert Hall renovation period.
