If your idea of a good night out involves drama, glamour, and maybe a few tears in the dark, the Auckland Philharmonia’s 2026 season is calling your name. The city’s biggest band (sorry, Six60) has unveiled a programme that’s pure queer joy — cinematic classics, 80s anthems, and world-class divas of every discipline.
This isn’t just classical music. It’s a vibe.
Global Icons, Local Legends
First up: cello heart-throb Sheku Kanneh-Mason. You’ve seen him play at that royal wedding (before Harry and Meghan packed up and moved to California). Now he’s making his NZ debut — and only Auckland gets him. He’ll perform Elgar’s Cello Concerto, and if you don’t cry at least once, check your pulse.
Then there’s Grammy-winning violinist Gil Shaham, tackling Beethoven like it’s couture on a runway. Acclaimed Canadian violinist James Ehnes returns with the kind of musical sparkle that would make Cher proud, while pianist Alexander Gavrylyuk and a stellar cast of conductors round out what might be the most glamorous orchestra season we’ve ever seen.
For the Drama Queens (Literally)
Puccini’s Madama Butterfly takes flight in July with Giordano Bellincampi at the helm and Erika Grimaldi as the doomed heroine. Opera in Concert means no sets, no fluff — just emotion, high notes, and heartbreak that echoes through the Auckland Town Hall. Bring tissues. And someone’s hand to hold dramatically.
From Matariki to the Movies
When Matariki rolls around, the Phil joins forces with Waiata Anthems, bringing te reo Māori versions of Kiwi hits into full symphonic bloom. It’s the kind of night that makes you feel lucky to live in Aotearoa — where tradition and innovation can hold hands under the stars.
Then the orchestra goes full-on Hollywood. The Wizard of Oz Live in Concert is basically a queer fever dream: rainbow references, sparkly shoes, live orchestra. ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ hits different when it’s played by a full-strength orchestra.
And if that’s not enough cinematic splendour, The Magic of John Williams concert brings us goosebump-inducing scores from galaxies far, far away, to the wizarding world. Close your eyes and you’re in Hogwarts. Or space. Or both.
Big Hair, Bigger Feelings: Back to the 80s
Shoulder pads, sequins and the symphony unite for Back to the 80s — a night of hits from Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, and Huey Lewis, arranged for a full symphony orchestra, and performed by incredible guest vocalists and the Auckland Phil. It’s the camp crossover we didn’t know we needed. Expect perms, power ballads, and maybe one too many slow-motion key changes.
Bring the Kids (or Just Your Inner One)
Aotearoa’s favourite prehistoric pals take the stage with Kiri and Lou in Concert, complete with stop-motion visuals and live orchestra magic. It’s sweet, silly and sincerely joyful — and honestly, who among us doesn’t love songs about feelings?
There’s also Tunes 4 Tamariki: The Fantabulous Animal Orchestra, featuring Kiwi author Donovan Bixley and a menagerie of musical creatures. Proof that classical music can roar, squeak, and giggle.
Book It Before Your Friends Do
Tickets are already on sale at aucklandphil.nz, and subscriptions come with all the perks — best seats, savings, and bragging rights when everyone else can’t get in.
So grab your queer crew, your opera-loving aunties, your film-score boyfriends, and whoever else appreciates a bit of culture with their cocktails. The Auckland Phil’s 2026 season is one long-standing ovation waiting to happen.
