Imagine Batman in Jurassic Park, battling against the ironic T-Rex. Or the Gladiator up against Harry Potter. Or something more realistic like E.T. dropping in on Matthew McConaughey in Interstellar, while Darth Vader chokes the cast of Inception.
Sure, none of these will ever happen on screen, it’s definite food for thought thanks to The Music of Hans Zimmer Vs John Williams, as conducted Anthony Inglis!
Related: Meet Conductor Anthony Inglis!
From iconic scores classic such as E.T. and Jurassic Park, to modern-day themes like Inception and Interstellar, the music of John Williams and Hans Zimmer are considered to be masterpieces for a reason. And if you thought you’d be missing the visual spectacle of the films that usually accompanies these scores, the amazing laser and light show would be fair trade. The lasers compliment the music and the lights very well. The whole lighting and laser scheme not only sets the mood but all creates an amazing background. There were parts where I found myself just staring at the lights show and laser display the beams al the way to the back. The only down side was that the best part of the laser show are the pictures that are made on the back wall, causing you to either strain your neck to catch a glimpse of it or miss it al together.
For me, the highlight of the show was that the music—masterfully played and conducted—was performed by an all-Singaporean orchestra. It’s quite refreshing to have an act or show come in and use the local talent. Not only does it afford our local musicians the attention and repute they deserve, it also highlights the sincerity in the collaborative efforts of internationally recognised names like Anthony Inglis—who happens to be quite a frequent visitor to Singapore, having conducted The Iconic Film Scores of John Williams just last year
The only real let down for me is the participation of our local 501st, the local chapter of Star Wars cosplayers and enthusiasts. Making an appearance during the performance, and posing for pictures with the audience after, what I found disappointing me was the static use of them. Especially given the potential of what could have been done during the Imperial March. It’s a shame because it could have been and amazing addition.
There were two real highlights of the show. The first is the amazing direction and comical commitment of the conductor Anthony Inglis. He’s easily the funniest conductor I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching. It really changes the atmosphere of the symphony—from perceivably stuffy and uptight to actually being a fun and engaging experience. It makes the whole show easily accessible to both newcomers and veterans.
The second highlight is the beautiful violin solo of the music from Schindler’s List. While I, Juan Pablo, am known to be the most macho man of all macho men, I will admit a single tear almost rolled down my cheek. The composition of the piece is both amazing and moving, and simply breathtaking. I’ve never been moved a piece of music the way I was at that moment.
While the performance felt magical enough to be a once in a lifetime experience, Anthony Inglis’ frequent trips to Singapore, plus his chemistry with our local musicians gives me hope that this will not be the last we see of him, or the last we hear of this clash of musical titans.