Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton at the Royal Albert Hall

As imaginative and inspiring as Tim Burton himself, this exquisite performance of Danny Elfman’s genius at the Royal Albert Hall is dramatic storytelling in its purest form. The London Concert Orchestra, conducted by John Mauceri, are joined on stage by the Maida Vale singers for this first of two special concerts to celebrate the work of one of the most beloved film composers.

Utterly evocative from the outset – chilling, rousing, innocent and epic – Elfman has the incredible ability to bring Tim Burton’s pictures to unique and individual life through music. From Corpse Bride to Mars Attacks!, everything is here, much to the audience’s delight.

Elfman’s scores, appearing in films that span cult to box office smash, are universally recognised and wholly well loved if tonight’s event is anything to go by. The skill of the London Concert Orchestra in bringing this show to life in such spectacular fashion is astounding; it’s like being inside a fantasy world, hypnotic almost. Beetlejuice draws delighted laughter from the avid audience, and Batman meets with rapturous applause. So many different personalities, yet so recognisable as Elfman.

A faultless rendition of Edward Scissorhands is far and away the standout of the night. Perhaps his most romantic piece, it gives you goosebumps. What a special score, full of heart and character – it wrenches on the heartstrings. That is Elfman’s magic.

But it’s The Nightmare Before Christmas that is easily the most entertaining performance of the evening, with the violin solo from Sandy Cameron heart-stopping stuff. Ecstatic applause erupts from the crowd of fans assembled in the magnificent hall as huge cheers welcome Elfman himself to the stage to perform as Jack Skellington. It’s clear he enjoys himself, strutting around and hamming it up in this rare stage appearance.

Rounded off with a centre-stage performance of Alice in Wonderland by a young soprano, it’s clear that Elfman has earned his place in the hearts of many as one of the greatest film score composers of the age. Simply mesmerising.

Georgia Mizen

Danny Elfman’s Music from the Films of Tim Burton was a one-off event at the Royal Albert Hall, for further information about future events visit here.