The Cat Empire with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Back by Popular Demand
Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Thu 27 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
Fri 28 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
Sat 29 Aug, 2026, 7.00pm
The Cat Empire returns to the Sydney Opera House for a highly anticipated run of encore performances with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Sign up below to register for presale access to this concert. Tickets go on sale to the general public from 10am, Thursday 19 March.
“This grand musical undertaking…will be remembered as a milestone in The Cat Empire’s career. It was bold and ambitious, but never lost sight that music is the most powerful way to connect us to our common humanity.” Scenestr
Following the overwhelming response to our 2024 collaboration – captured on the band’s new album, Live at the Sydney Opera House – The Cat Empire again join forces with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for more joyous, uplifting performances. This special concert sees the band re-imagine their catalogue on a grand orchestral scale, blending beloved The Cat Empire classics with bold new arrangements written especially for this collaboration. Drawing on the band’s signature mix of Afro-Cuban, Seychellois Creole, Brazilian and flamenco influences, the music is expanded and elevated by the full force of the Orchestra, creating a powerful and immersive live experience.
The 2026 encore shows feature world-class flamenco artists Arte Kanela alongside a large choir, bringing added drama, rhythm and emotion to the stage. The result is a joyous, cinematic celebration of rhythm, melody and movement — showcasing The Cat Empire in a way that you won’t forget.
Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied at all times by an adult when attending concerts at the venue.
VIP Experience
Package Includes:
- Exclusive access to watch a rehearsal with The Cat Empire and Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the venue before the public sees the show (Thursday 27 August).
- Photo opportunity with members of The Cat Empire.
- Exclusive leather VIP commemorative wristband handmade in Australia (RRP $50).
- Exclusive handmade merchandise item from Sonira designed for superfans (RRP $50).
Artists
Carlo Antonioli
Conductor
The Cat Empire
Band
Arte Kanela
Flamenco Ensemble
Gondwana Choirs
Choir
Sydney Symphony Schools Choir
Massed Choir
Want to be part of the concert?
Applications are now open for a powerful massed choir of school students to add even more excitement to the concert. Open to students in Years 7–12, with preference given to Years 9–12, this program invites passionate young singers to challenge themselves, grow their musicianship and be part of something extraordinary.