No genre is exempt from the Candlelight series: from timeless classical masterpieces to uplifting pop artists, magical movie soundtracks to smooth jazz, renditions of melodies are performed by string quartets, musical duos or whole live bands, all the while bathed in the soft glow of candlelight. This summer, a special edition of this series will venture to brand-new locations for the first time, as the Candlelight Summer Series celebrates Hans Zimmer and more.
The Candlelight Summer Series will visit Blackpool, Brighton, Plymouth, Margate and Southampton among others, setting up shop in iconic historical venues down the country. Each show, despite varying performance lengths and programmes of music, will see a string quartet perform some of Hans Zimmer’s iconic film scores, Queen’s greatest hits, Coldplay’s biggest anthems, and more! Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover enchanting concerts under candlelight.
Brighton
The Royal Pavilion: a feast for the eyes
Initially built for King George IV as his seaside villa, featuring lavish interiors with colourful Chinese decorations, the Royal Pavilion was expanded in the 19th century to the spellbinding oriental palace we see today. During WWI, the pavilion was converted into a military hospital, catering mainly to Indian soldiers of the British Army.
And today, four restorations and a century later, the Royal Pavilion today serves as a museum and art gallery, housing a huge range of artwork, furniture, ceramics, glass, metalwork and furnishing textiles. This summer, it will also host a series of intimate tribute concerts to some of the most noted artists in the likes of ABBA, Taylor Swift and Queen.
Plymouth
National Marine Aquarium: the UK’s largest aquarium
Have you ever thought about what it would be like to attend a classical concert at an aquarium? Plymouth National Marine Aquarium provides a visually stunning backdrop for these intimate concerts and we couldn’t think of a better setting to hear spellbinding compositions by candlelight than at the UK’s largest aquarium. Hear Hans Zimmer’s best works as well as classical renditions of music by ABBA, Coldplay and Queen inside this stunning setting.
It’s home to more than 4000 animals and this summer, you can go on an underwater adventure while listening to classical renditions of iconic film scores as well as contemporary hits inside this fabulous Plymouth venue.
Market Hall Dome: an immersive experience
Candlelight is coming to illuminate this world-class venue in Plymouth boasting a 15m immersive dome. As well as hosting exciting events and experiences for all ages, Market Hall dome’s historic building also offers bright co-working spaces and facilities for artists and businesses. Prepare for spectacular tributes to Joe Hisaishi and Hans Zimmer at a unique venue this summer.
Southampton
The Southampton City Art Gallery: an outstanding space dedicated to creativity
Located in Southampton’s Cultural Quarter, The Southampton City Art Gallery was opened in 1939 and has housed top-notch art exhibitions that boast impressive paintings, sculptures, drawings, photographs and more. As hundreds of candles illuminate this magnificent art gallery, you can hear Hans Zimmer’s most revered scores from films including Pearl Harbor and Gladiator or be transported to “Paradise” while listening to the music of Coldplay in a classical light.
Margate
Turner Contemporary: artistic discovery and exploration
This fantastic contemporary art gallery was once the boarding house where JMW Turner stayed when he visited Margate. Inspired by his work, Turner Contemporary opened in 2011 and provides visitors with art exhibitions, tours, activities, and a café overlooking the harbour. Immerse yourself in an evening inspired by the movies guided by renditions of Hans Zimmer’s greatest works while sitting surrounded by candlelight at this spectacular venue.
It’s not everyday you hear mesmerising melodies performed by first rate musicians at some of the country’s most stunning venues. This summer, immerse yourself in the magical world of Candlelight and escape busy London, that oftentimes gets too overwhelming to bear.
Whether for a romantic getaway, or a weekend out with the kids, these spellbinding concerts are the perfect plan for summertime.