Hamilton, Ontario – The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra is thrilled to partner with The Zoetic Theatre to present HPO Movie Night at The Zoetic. A brand new program, HPO Movie Night brings together two genres of entertainment for fun and nostalgic classic movie nights at The Zoetic.

This fall, three films themed around the HPO’s 2014-15 concerts will be presented on the big screen. Each night also features a special pre-film feature that enhances the audience’s movie-going experience.

Immortal Beloved (1994)

Wednesday, September 10 at 7:30pm

Immortal Beloved is a biographical account of Ludwig van Beethoven’s life and loves. The story follows Beethoven’s secretary and first biographer Anton Schindler as he attempts to ascertain the true identity of the Unsterbliche Geliebte (Immortal Beloved) addressed in three letters found in the late composer’s private papers. Schindler journeys both throughout the Austrian Empire interviewing women who might be potential candidates and through Beethoven’s own tumultuous life. Starring Gary Oldman and Isabella Rossellini.

Pre-Film Feature: Experience a mini-performance by two HPO musicians as they present a Beethoven Sonata and provide context about Beethoven’s music.

Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the HPO’s concert Opening Night: Laplante Plays Beethoven on September 26 at 7:30pm at FirstOntario Concert Hall (formerly Hamilton Place).

Ray (2004)

Wednesday, October 8 at 7:30pm

Ray is a biographical film focusing on 30 years of the life of rhythm and blues musician Ray Charles. Raised on a sharecropping plantation in Northern Florida, Ray Charles Robinson went blind at the age of seven. Inspired by a fiercely independent mother who insisted he make his own way in the world, Charles found his calling and his gift behind a piano keyboard. Jamie Foxx received an Academy Award for his portrayal of Ray Charles. Starring Jamie Foxx and Kerry Washington.

Pre-Film Feature: Hear an exclusive interview with HPO horn player Neil Spaulding about what it was like to play with Ray Charles in a series of concerts in the 1990s.

Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the HPO’s concert Ray Charles: A Tribute on October 18 at 7:30pm at FirstOntario Concert Hall (formerly Hamilton Place).

The Red Violin (1998)

Wednesday, November 19 at 7:30pm

The Red Violin centres on a violin created in 1681 by a Cremonese master violinmaker for the birth of his child. The film spans four centuries and five countries as it tells the story of a mysterious violin and its many owners. Starring Colm Feore, Samuel L. Jackson and Don McKellar.

Pre-Film Feature: Enjoy a demonstration on the violin by an HPO musician and as they talk about the intriguing history and usage of this important orchestral instrument.

Guests will also have the opportunity to purchase tickets to the HPO’s concert Brilliance: Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto on November 29 at 7:30pm at FirstOntario Concert Hall (formerly Hamilton Place).

 

HPO at the Movies will take place at The Zoetic Theatre at 526 Concession St. (at Upper Wentworth). Formerly the Lyceum Theatre in 1930 and most recently the Movie Palace.The Zoetic Theatre reopened in November 2013 as a premiere venue for cinema and performing arts. The newly refurbished theatre features seating for 350 and a 24 ft screen as well as full stage lighting and a deco-style baby grand piano for live performances.

To purchase tickets to HPO Move Night at The Zoetic, visit staginghpo.wpengine.com or thezoetic.ca.

 

Media Contact: Diana Weir, Partnerships Manager | Tel: 905.526.1677 x230 | Email: dweir@hpo.org

The Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra was founded in 1884 as The Hamilton Orchestral Society and grew to become one of Canada’s major professional orchestras. Today, the HPO is a leader in Hamilton’s robust arts community where it provides professional orchestral services and music education programs to address the needs of the community. The HPO continues to commission and premiere works and is one of the artistic jewels of the Hamilton area. The combined musical talents of its artists continue to enrich the community and enhance the quality of life for its residents.