It’s hard to think of many films from the past few years that ignited as large a groundswell of discussion upon its release as Joker. Many adored Todd Phillips-directed, Joaquin Phoenix-starring picture, while others had a gripe or two about its content.
Four years later, we’re gearing up for a second instalment, but in the meantime, you may just be able to catch a live concert of the film right here in London.
How will ‘Joker’ live in concert work?
You may remember this coming to the live concert sphere back in 2021 when, after a pandemic-induced delay, the Joker score was taken to the UK for a sold-out run of dates. This time, you’ll have once chance and one chance only to catch the haunting sounds conjured up by Hildur Guðnadóttir for the big screen. It’ll hit the Royal Festival Hall at the Southbank Centre on February 7, and is presented by Senbla.
Anyone with a ticket will get to see a screening of the film with the iconic score filled in by a live orchestra which is certain to elevate the soundscapes, from the bleak to the bizarre, to a different level.
The Christmas markets at the South Bank may be long gone by that point, but you can still find something altogether cheery in the form of a Joker score. Sorry, wrong movie – the tale this one scores is pretty far from festive and joyous, but I think as a city we’ll be ready for that come February.
For those who still haven’t caught Joker (you’ve had long enough now, guys – come ON), it follows Arthur Fleck, a loner played by Joaquin Phoenix who descends further down into becoming the infamous Joker in this origin story set in the pits of Gotham City. Guðnadóttir’s score is a particularly memorable one, and seeing it played by a live orchestra is sure to give it even more layers to add to its haunting and emotive touches.
Speaking on the live concern, Hildur Guðnadóttir said: “I’m thrilled to get to see and hear Joker with a live orchestra. When we recorded the music, the orchestra brought such depth and detailed attention to the performances that we were all literally holding our breaths during most of the recording sessions. It was a beautiful trip. I’m so happy to get to go there again and for an audience to experience that too.”
Tickets for ‘Joker’ live in concert will go on sale this week, starting with a pre-sale on Wednesday, December 20, and then a general sale on Thursday, December 21. Both sales begin at 10am, and tickets can be found here.
