Opera North and Leeds City Council have announced the full lineup for this year’s long weekend in Millennium Square, Leeds… 

Image: Sarah Zagni

Opera North in the City is set to return in July, ready to once again pair 80s smash hits with the backing of a 60-piece orchestra over the course of two nights: 80s Classical and Club Classical Anthems.

The 80s Classical night made its debut at last year’s festival to a roaring success. Now its lineup of symphonic reworkings includes appearances from Jimmy Somerville, Belinda Carlisle, Go West, T’Pau’s Carol Decker and John Parr.

In a press release, Carlisle said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be able to perform some of my best loved songs in front of a 60-piece symphony orchestra and to be involved in such a fresh and exciting event. I always get a great reaction from my fans in the UK and I know this is going to be really special occasion.”

Last year’s festivities saw an appearance from founder and lead vocalist of Bronski Beat and The Communards, Jimmy Somerville. He’s reportedly anticipating his return this year, saying in a press release: “I’m so excited to be returning to Leeds and to be collaborating once again with the wonderful Orchestra of Opera North on these truly unique orchestral arrangements of my catalogue. Last year was such a memorable evening and I can’t wait to perform in Millennium Square again.”

After Friday night’s 80s Classical, the Saturday of the festival will see the debut of Club Classical Anthems night. Singer-songwriter John Newman heads a bill featuring Ultra Naté, Black Box and Kelli-Leigh, pairing original vocalists of dancefloor hits with their orchestral reimaginings.

The weekend will close out celebrations with a live performance of Raiders Of The Lost Ark in concert, where Steven Spielberg’s 1981 classic is brought to life by the Orchestra of Opera North.

Opera North in the City will run from 24 July–26 July. Click here for more ticket information.