Maximus Decimus Meridius will have his vengeance (in this life or the next) for a fourth time, as the Royal Albert Hall have announced an extra date for its Gladiator ‘Live in Concert’ event, due to incredible popular demand. Renowned vocalist Lisa Gerrard, who collaborated on the original soundtrack with composer Hans Zimmer, will also perform live at all four performances making this an extra special event you won’t want to miss.
The additional performance of Ridley Scott’s epic, starring Russell Crowe as a Roman general turned gladiator, will be on Saturday 24th May, with the film being screened in stunning high definition. It’s famous score will be brought to life by the Philharmonia Film Orchestra and the Philharmonia Chorus.
Director Ridley Scott said: “We often forget that before sound and film were married on celluloid, we all watched movies with a live music soundtrack.
“To have the immediacy of a real orchestra as accomplished as the Philharmonia in the room offers an unparalleled dimension to the experience of watching Gladiator.
“As with all the composers I’ve worked with, Hans’ music has played a very important role in my films and it’s a pleasure to see this element of the filmmaking process celebrated in this way.”
The three previously released dates for Gladiator at the Royal Albert Hall (from Monday May 26th to Wednesday, May 28th) are all sold out.
Speaking about the event, Jasper Hope, Chief Operating Officer at the Royal Albert Hall, said: “We knew that bringing Ridley Scott’s mammoth modern masterpiece to the Hall, complete with a 200-strong orchestra and chorus, would get the thumbs up from audiences but the demand has been nothing short of epic. Adding this fourth date gives another 5,000 fans the chance to see this classic film in a most perfect cinematic setting.”
The Royal Albert Hall, opened in 1871, was modelled on ancient Roman amphitheatres, including the Coliseum itself, in which Gladiator’s rousing, visceral battle scenes take place.
Ridley Scott’s film, which features Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen, Derek Jacobi, Richard Harris and Oliver Reed in his last screen appearance, scooped five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, while Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard’s memorable music was recognised as the Best Original Score at the Golden Globes.
Gladiator Live is part of the Hall’s ongoing series presenting cinematic landmarks with live orchestral accompaniment. Future events include the UK premières of J. J. Abrams’ Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness, as well as the legendary 1961 musical West Side Story, and a repeat performance of last year’s world première celebrating the work of composer Danny Elfman in the films of Tim Burton.
Gladiator Live
24, 26, 27, 28th May 2014 at 7.30pm
Kensington Gore, London SW7 2AP
Tickets £20 – £65 (booking fees apply)
Box Office 020 7589 8212
www.royalalberthall.com
Tickets are on-sale now. Please note this film is rated 15.
