On Saturday, August 16th, the highly anticipated Flying Proms Air Show makes its grand return to Shuttleworth, promising an unforgettable evening of aviation spectacle and live musical brilliance. This revered event, a cherished tradition spanning over two decades at the picturesque aerodrome near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, is poised to captivate audiences with its unique blend of sound and flight, culminating in a magnificent firework finale.
This theatrically rich evening is meticulously crafted to deliver all the pomp and circumstance synonymous with a traditional Proms concert, elevated by the breathtaking backdrop of historic aircraft in flight. Attendees will be immersed in a truly unique cultural experience where the grandeur of classical music perfectly harmonizes with the awe-inspiring power of vintage aviation, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.
A highlight for aviation enthusiasts will be the display featuring the sole surviving Avro Lancaster, a truly iconic aircraft, which will perform gracefully as the stirring ‘Dambusters March’ is played live by the orchestra. This is merely one of several incredible pairings, as the Shuttleworth Collection’s Gloster Gladiator will soar to the ‘Theme to Gladiator’, and their genuine Supermarine Spitfire will fly in sync with the ‘Spitfire Prelude’, showcasing the deep connection between flight and melody.
The air display further expands with two charming Edwardian aircraft taking to the skies, performing to ‘Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines’, a fitting tribute given their cinematic fame. As the evening progresses, the renowned Firebirds Display Team will unleash their spectacular routine, a dazzling aerial ballet featuring impressive in-flight pyrotechnics that illuminate the twilight sky, adding another layer of excitement to the Air Show.
Musically, Shuttleworth is delighted to host the National Symphony Orchestra once again, who will perform two full acts of live music, ensuring a rich and varied classical program. Adding to the prestige, Classic FM’s Composer in Residence, Debbie Wiseman OBE, will make a special guest appearance to conduct her own celebrated compositions, ‘Salute’ and ‘Charles III’, enriching the live music experience.
As dusk transitions into night, the stage will welcome acclaimed West End performers, lending their incredible live vocals to various numbers, adding a powerful vocal dimension to the orchestral performance. Olivia Safe, known for her role as Christine Daae in ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, and Joel Harper-Jackson, celebrated for his appearances in ‘Kinky Boots’ and ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’, are set to deliver captivating performances.
The evening will majestically culminate in the traditional, beloved pomp and circumstance numbers, creating a sense of shared national pride and celebration. This grand musical crescendo will then seamlessly transition into a spectacular firework finale, painting the night sky with vibrant colors and explosions, providing a memorable conclusion to the Flying Proms.
Full details on the comprehensive lineup of aircraft and musical acts, along with direct ticket booking options, are readily available on Shuttleworth’s official website. Tickets for the Flying Proms begin at £50, with reduced rates for children aged 4-15 at £25, and free entry for those under 4, along with discounted group rates for parties of 15 or more, making this iconic air show accessible to all.
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