A Little Night Music (And More): Don’t Miss Proms in The Park 2018

0
2056
Proms

A fully-fledged British institution, the Last Night of the Proms isn’t to be missed if you’re visiting London in early September – especially if you’re staying at one of the Hotels in Bayswater London W2. The conclusion of the BBC’s season of affordable classical music concerts held every summer (most of them at the Royal Albert Hall), the ‘Last Night’ is, indeed, their patriotic climax at that very venue.

Albert Hall

However, there’s also nowadays an event that’s arguably even better that goes on simultaneously with the ‘Last Night’, the celebratory, out-of-doors Proms in the Park. Hosted by musical theatre and media star Michael Ball, this open-air event features a host of musical stars every year, from both the classical and pop/ rock remit, as well as the world-renowned BBC Concert Orchestra, conducted by Richard Balcombe.

When and where?

Saturday 8th September from 5pm onwards in Hyde Park (W2 2EU) – ideal then for the Grand Royale London Hyde Park hotel.

Who?

The performers are set to include:

  • Gladys Knight– a US soul icon, first with The Pips before and then on her own, Gladys Knight has won seven Grammy awards, cementing herself as a musical industry legend
  • Josh Groban– a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and actor, Groban’s been responsible for seven multi-platinum selling albums, as well as a string of hit tunes
  • Joseph Calleja –one of the most sought-after tenors on the planet, Joseph Calleja is bound to deliver highlights from his five solo albums, as well as operatic favourites in a doubtless crowd-wowing performance
  • Matt Goss– from selling out arenas throughout the world as a member of 1980s boyband sensation Bros to headlining a long-running residency in Las Vegas, Matt Goss’s voice and stage presence is second to none; reason indeed why he’s sold more than 17 million records worldwide
  • Lisa Stansfield– an ever-present voice in UK music for more than 20 years, Lisa Stansfield’s expected to belt out her back-catalogue of classic tracks as well as new offerings, thanks to unique mix of soul, disco and R ‘n’ B sensibilities.
  • Rock Choir– the UK’s largest contemporary choir, Rock Choir numbers a staggering 27,000-plus members across Britain, all led by musician-cum-singer Caroline Redman Lusher, 100 of whom are set to take to the Hyde Park stage to sing and dance together for this event’s crowd in a performance that’ll doubtless leave attendees unable to remain in their seats and not sing and dance along.

Seating?

Speaking of seats, attendees to Proms in the Park are permitted to bring along a chair each, as well as food, drink and picnic paraphernalia, but are requested to set them down and use them with consideration for others. For both reasons of safety and, again, the consideration and comfort of others attending the event, stewards may – if necessary – ask people to reduce the ‘total footprint’ of the picnic or seating area they choose for themselves. Note: Proms in the Park is a very well-attended, ticketed event.

Weather?

Ah, the British summer… fear not; Proms in the Park’ll go ahead regardless of whatever the weather’s like. Yes, really – all very British! So, it’s advisable to take note of London weather forecasts in the run-up up to the event, should you choose to attend. Taking place early in September, it could well be very hot during the afternoon and, possibly, turn chilly in the evening after sunset (and, of course, it could definitely rain); so, come prepared with clothes layers and macs to wear should the heavens open overhead!