The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra is tuning up for a new musical experience, with the launch of Press Play, a live concert dedicated to the legendary world of video game music.
As you huddle into the Festival Theatre this August, you’ll picture the iconic loading screens of your favourite classic video games as the soundtracks immerse you in their worlds, note by nostalgic note.
You’ll be hearing your favourite scores from genre-defining games like Super Mario, Halo, Final Fantasy, and Assassin’s Creed.
You can also expect to hear the best tracks from Tetris, Sonic, The Legend of Zelda, Kingdom Hearts, Hollow Knight, and more.
As the soaring echo of the Halo theme rings out, it’s a moment that will lift you right out of your seat. All the blips and chimes of Super Mario’s all-time score will get a fascinating retelling as the orchestra gives its own sophisticated spin.
The show was a sell-out with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra earlier this year, where audiences dressed as their favourite heroes and villains, eager to hear the iconic theme songs of their in-game counterparts.
Now, Adelaide audiences can dive into the thrill of experiencing these iconic scores live.
ASO Principal Bass Trombone player Amanda Tillett is both a musician and gamer, and said the concert is a unique entry point for new symphony orchestra audiences.
“I love the thought that a diehard gamer could be coming to a concert like this seeing an orchestra for the first time but recognising everything they hear,” Tillett said.
“It’s a fallacy that video game music is just for gamers. If the music is good, it doesn’t matter what it was originally written for – people will enjoy it. Including gaming alongside traditional classical and film music in orchestral seasons is exciting. It makes space for more people and ultimately more connection,” she continued.
The concert will be led by Meena Shamaly, host of ABC Classic’s Game Show. He will guide the audience through a soundscape that crosses genres and generations.
“Video game music is now more creative than ever, because it can be nearly any sound you imagine,” said Shamaly.
“Gaming scores are contemporary classical adventures that powerfully blend tradition with the future. They are immersive, dynamic, and non-linear experiences, actively responding to the player and bringing entire worlds to life,” he added.
“With exciting, evocative, and unforgettable themes,” Shamaly continued, “these sounds remain in the heart long after the screen is off.”
Press Play is suitable for a wide audience, from long-time gamers to anyone who enjoys a strong musical story. No gameplay footage or visuals will be shown, but some featured games include mature themes, so parental discretion is advised for younger attendees.
Tickets are available now at aso.com.au. Prices start from $65 for adults, $25 for children, and $30 for those aged 30 and under.
What: Press Play by Adelaide Symphony Orchestra
Where: Festival Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre
When: 7pm, Friday, 1 August & Saturday, 2 August 2025
For more information, click here.
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