Picnic concert

Celebrate the soundtrack of cinema and the grandeur of opera in this spectacular concert film, “Picnic Concert.” Immerse yourself in a sweeping program that unites historic choruses, world‑famous orchestras, and celebrated conductors to bring beloved movie themes to life. Part 1 opens with the sublime Ensemble Canzonieri before the Republican Guard Orchestra and the French Army Choir, led by Commander Émilie Fleury and Colonel Sébastien Billard, who guide the performance with passionate precision. Special feature: virtuoso violinist Esther Abrami adds lyrical brilliance to the opening passages. Experience Ennio Morricone’s most memorable cinematic motifs, from the haunting “Deborah’s Theme” and the spirited “Poverty” to the soaring “Main Theme” from *Once Upon a Time in America*. Witness the power of *The Sicilian Clan* and *Once Upon a Time in the West* as they intertwine with Richard Hooper’s delicate “Love Theme” and the tender “Toto and Alfredo” from *Cinema Paradiso*. The cinematic journey continues with the stirring “Gabriel’s Oboe” from *Mission*, Nino Rota’s enchanting “Waltz—Mandolin” from *The Godfather*, and a dramatic symphonic suite from *La Strada*. Part 2 showcases operatic treasures: the dazzling overture of Rossini’s *Le Péirevole*, Verdi’s “Prelude to Act I” from *La Traviata*, the triumphant “Grand March” from *Aida*, and Mascagni’s “Intermezzo” from *Cavalleria Rusticana*. Revel in Verdi’s heroic “Overture” to *La Forza del Destino* and Rossini’s playful “Chorus of the Drinkers” from *Le Comte Ory*, followed by Donizetti’s rousing “Rataplan” from *La Fille du Régiment*. The finale brings together Verdi’s “Chorus of the Matadors,” the thrilling “Si ridesti il leone di Castiglia” from *Ernani*, the jubilant “Evviva! Beviam, beviam!” from *Ernani*, the regal “Chorus of the Courtiers” from *Rigoletto*, and the spirited “Chorus of the Gypsies (Zingari)” from *Il Trovatore*. This unforgettable concert film offers a journey through the heart of cinema and opera, blending cinematic nostalgia with operatic grandeur, all under the masterful direction of Commander Émilie Fleury and Colonel Sébastien Billard. Join us for a celebration of music that transcends the silver screen and brings timeless performances to the stage.