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May 28.2025
2 Minutes Read

Join the Celebration of Musical Theatre: Queen and Bernstein Concerts Await

Headshot portraits of performers attending Grange Festival concerts.

Celebrating Musical Legends: A Festival of Sound

The 2025 Grange Festival is set to dazzle audiences with a spectacular lineup as musical theatre legends come together to celebrate Queen, Broadway, and the genius of Leonard Bernstein. This unique festival, expertly orchestrated under the leadership of chief executive Tyler Stoops, underscores the enduring connection between opera and popular music, particularly through the lens of Freddie Mercury's artistic legacy.

The Queen at the Opera Concert

One of the festival's highlights will be the Queen at the Opera concert, marking 50 years since the iconic album A Night at the Opera was released. This special performance will showcase a blend of operatic and rock elements, featuring renowned performances from musical theatre stars such as Jon Boydon and Jenna Lee-James, alongside exceptional operatic talents like Jordan Pitts and Ann Toomey. Conducted by Edwin Outwater and Pete Harrison across multiple performances, this concert promises to be a memorable tribute to Mercury’s extraordinary contributions to the music world.

Exploring Bernstein’s Broadway Brilliance

In addition to the Queen tribute, the Bernstein on Broadway concert will explore the theatrical brilliance of composer Leonard Bernstein, featuring selections from classics like West Side Story and Wonderful Town. Stars Julian Ovenden and Elèna Gyasi will grace the stage, complemented by the powerful Welsh National Opera Orchestra, under the baton of Grammy Award-winning conductor Karen Kamensek. This concert, scheduled for late June, will highlight the rich tapestry of Bernstein's work and its impact on American musical theatre.

More Exciting Events at the Festival

The Grange Festival won’t stop at concerts; attendees can also look forward to vibrant new productions, including a reimagined rendition of La Traviata and an innovative street-dance fusion of Les Indes Galantes. Moreover, a jazz evening featuring the Jazz Orchestra of the Concertgebouw will add further musical diversity to the event, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Why These Concerts Matter

The gatherings at the Grange Festival not only honor musical heritage but also bridge generations of music lovers, inviting both young and old to experience the joy of live performances. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a rich celebration of both opera and contemporary musical influences. This convergence highlights the living legacy of the greats, ensuring their stories and messages continue to resonate in the modern artistic landscape.

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