John Wilson & Sinfonia of London: Rogers & Hammerstein’s Greatest Hits at Lighthouse, Poole Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Z Bonds

John Wilson and Sinfonia of London plus special guest soloists Louise Dearman, Nathaniel Hackmann & Scarlett Strallen, Lighthouse, Poole, Thursday 19th June 2025

John Wilson and Sinfonia of London performing Rodgers and Hammerstein’s greatest hits at Lighthouse, Poole on Thursday 19th June 2025 really was the extravaganza that had been promised and the best classical concert I can honestly say I have had the pleasure of attending.

From the opening bars of ‘Oh What a Beautiful Morning’, the audience were hooked and on the edge of their seats. The harmoniously rhythmic movement of the string section taking the forefront during this very apt piece, on a gorgeous June summer’s evening set the tone for a wonderful evening’s entertainment. Little did we realise that the collaboration with the sinfonia and special guest soloists Louise Dearman, Nathaniel Hackmann & Scarlett Strallen could enhance the experience even further, but it really did.

The first real opportunity for the whole orchestra to come together as one and build on the atmosphere and drama that had already alluded to, was in Oklahoma, where it was the eye that challenged on trying to follow and spot the main areas of ‘action’ in the orchestra and it delighted by all that it captured.

John Wilson, clearly a hugely dynamic, charismatic and celebrated conductor seemed to have such intimacy with the Sinfonia of London orchestra, where at times, it felt like we were intruding on an incredibly personal and faithful rendition of some of the musical classics. His stamina, clear love for the music and almost, at times, theatrical performance, gave the opportunity to experience the music through his expression. One can only imagine the picture John Wilson could paint with his baton in those incredible hand movements, almost theatrical at times, creating an image of the beautiful tempo, dynamics and structure.

I would wholeheartedly agree with The Guardian, when they say that John Wilson and London Sinfonia’s ‘live performances are a special occasion’ and therefore should not be missed.

Musical pieces were intercepted with anecdotes from John Wilson himself relating to the musicals themselves, but also personal, amusing anecdotes that helped to give a better understanding of the piece that followed and points of interest about each musical. The conductor’s praise for Rodgers and Hammerstein and their scores was glowing and it was clear that they hold a special place in his heart.
The concert included music from “South Pacific,” “The Sound of Music,” “Oklahoma!,” “Carousel,” and “The King and I.” The performance showcased a number of popular songs like “Lady and the Tramp” but the highlight had to be the Sound of Music Overture, which had us all toe-tapping in our seats and gave the brass sections a fabulous opportunity to really come into their own.

I recommend this concert highly for both the classical connoisseur and those who perhaps dabble in orchestral delights. The entertainment value and quality of music were second to none and highly recommended. I rate this concert 5/5.

The UK tour began on the 18th June in Brighton and will culminate in Gateshead, the composer’s home town, on 29th June. Remaining tour dates are at Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham on 21st June, Bridgewater Hall, Manchester on 22nd June, Bristol Beacon on 23rd June, the Anvil Basingstoke on 24th June, The Royal Albert Hall on 26th June, Symphony Hall, Birmingham on 27th June, The Royal Concert Hall Glasgow on 28th June and finally The Glasshouse International Centre for Music, Gateshead on 29th June.

Rating: 5/5

For more information and to book tickets, visit sinfoniaoflondon.com