Anime’s most iconic scenes owe a lot to their scores. Take the train ride in Spirited Away or Kiki’s first flight in Kiki’s Delivery Service — with just a few notes, the music shifts each moment from memorable to unforgettable, and that’s exactly what Candlelight’s anime concert in Melbourne taps into. Fans relive their favourite anime scenes as a full orchestra performs scores composed by the likes of Joe Hisaishi — the musical mastermind behind Studio Ghibli hits like Howl’s Moving Castle and Princess Mononoke.
Anime concert by Candlelight Orchestra in Melbourne: what to expect
‘Candlelight Orchestra: Best of Anime’ is a 75-minute live music show that journeys through your favourite anime soundtracks. It’s taking place inside the historic Collingwood Town Hall in Melbourne and there’s currently one confirmed date: 29 November. There’ll be two shows on the night with the first starting at 6pm and a later one at 8:30pm.
While the setlist remains under wraps, prepare to hear grand orchestral renditions of scores that have defined anime’s most unforgettable scenes for generations. Think the music that scores epic battles, heartfelt adventures and touching moments in some of the world’s most beloved anime films and series. Under the glow of candlelight, violins, violas, flutes, horns and more reimagine scores by legendary anime composers like Joe Hisaishi, the composer of iconic movies such as Castle in the Sky, My Neighbor Totoro and Ponyo.
Dress code and cosplay tips
Candlelight concerts in Melbourne don’t have a dress code. Audiences are welcome to show up in their best anime-inspired fits, so feel free to go all out with creative cosplay, kawaii accessories, casual comfort or even dress to the nines. Please note that attendees must be 8 years old or older and anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.