Review: WASO’s Skyfall in Concert at Riverside Theatre
WASO's Skyfall in Concert at Riverside Theatre
Thursday, February 2, 2023
The Western Australian Symphony orchestra delivered another stellar performance this week, with the next instalment of their popular ‘WASO at the movies’ series. Skyfall in Concert marked the second Bond film to be tackled by some of the state’s most exemplary classical musicians, with Casino Royale attracting large crowds in January 2022.
Skyfall, the 25th film in the Bond franchise and most successful to date, follows Daniel Craig’s Bond as he faces the formidable and ruthless cyberterrorist and former MI6 agent Raoul Silva. Judi Dench returns for her final performance as the masterful M, while Bond takes to the shadows aided by the charming and resourceful Eve Moneypenny to prevent the exposure of MI6 agents around the world, as he battles the revenge-consumed Silvia in his pursuit of vengeance.
Entering the theatre to find the entire stage covered in chairs, music stands and assorted instruments, the audience knew that they were in for a treat, with such a large collection of artists. It was later noted that the number of performers on stage was bigger than some classical concerts WASO has produced. This soon came to be known as the Riverside Theatre space was filled with the booming tones of the heart-racing instrumentals beloved by Bond fans.
Conductor Jessica Gethin was incredibly charismatic as she welcomed the eager punters to the evening of nostalgic Bond escapades, introducing the orchestral artists and the WASO organisation. Captivating to watch, Gethin’s conducting of the audience was at times as engaging as the film itself, bringing to life the music of composer Thomas Newman with all its energy and punch.
The commencement of the film truly held the gravity of ‘Bond,’ straight from the first notes. It was certain that many Bond fans’ hearts would have beat a little faster at the famous first two notes of the score, which signaled Bond’s entrance. The intense and dramatic car chase and train sequence which opens the non-stop action film was performed with the same level of energy and vigour which drew audiences immediately into the action.
Sadly, there were some technical difficulties in this first sequence, just before the iconic opening song sequence, as the film was subject to moments of cutting out and skipping sections of film. This was a shame, as it detracted from the otherwise immersive action, and the powerful performance of the WASO musicians. The performance was paused for about five minutes, after which Gethin returned and the film re-commenced without further issue or disruption.
With the sequence moving straight into the eponymous track Skyfall, sung by Adele, it was easy to forget the previous difficulties, with the combination of a haunting performance from the string section, and punchy brass and wind accompaniment bringing to life the powerful opening sequence. Adele’s original vocals were played over the orchestra, however a live performer would potentially have been a stronger addition.
The film moved rapidly through its scenes and drama, with the WASO musicians never seeming to miss a beat, and before the crowds knew it, the music concluded, and an intermission was called. Getting to have a better look at the stage in this moment the sheer variety of instruments, both classical and contemporary was fascinating, with the score utilising harpists, electric bassists, drummers, guitarists and keyboard artists in addition to its more expected arsenal of wind, brass and string performers. A particularly special mention goes to the percussion artists, whom could be seen running between instruments at the back of the stage and creating some of the tensest moments with their large drums and fascinating instrument collections.
With the resumption of the second half, the orchestra lost no time in diving straight in with their evocative instrumentals, back bigger and better than before as Bond inched closer and closer to the heart-stopping, guns-a-blazing confrontation and conclusion.
At times, particularly in moments when the orchestra's more subdued instrumental sections took place, it was often easy to become so immersed in the action that the presence of the orchestra was almost forgotten. This was indubitably a compliment, as their performance blended so effectively with the film and its tempo. Of course, that was much harder to do in the most dramatic moments, where the passion and precision of the musicians' playing was arguably more captivating and immersive than the plot.
The conclusion of the film was definitely dreaded by punters, in signalling the end of a fantastic experience, however the orchestra’s performance of the beloved Bond overture was a delight, and paid homage to the strength of the nostalgia that surrounds this beloved series.
Every artist, arranger and producer involved in this performance deserved the utmost commendation for their masterful performance of a score that so many hold dear. Skyfall in Concert was an exemplary demonstration of the sheer talent and capacity of Western Australia’s Symphony Orchestra and a reminder that orchestral performances can be enjoyed by anyone, not just fans of classical music.
BEC WELDON
