Originally published in Waikato Times, Monday 2 February 2026.
By Charlotte Graham.
James Judd will lead the orchestra in a programme including Tchaikovsky and Beethoven. PHOTO: Latitude Creative.
The stellar line-up of artists gracing BNZ Theatre’s stage will continue later this year as the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra (NZSO) brings a star-studded line-up to Hamilton.
Resurgence will kick off the music season on May 8, featuring the world premiere of Fanfare Kotahitanga by New Zealand composer Anthony Ritchie.
Music Director Emeritus James Judd and the NZSO will also lead the orchestra through a classic line-up, including Tchaikovsky’s romantic Second Symphony, Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony and Jessie Montgomery’s Strum inspired by Appalachian fiddle music and jazz.
Following this, on August 23 the Myths & Legends show will include renowned Finnish conductor Pietari Inkinen. This programme is inspired by the dramatic landscapes of Finland and New Zealand, and showcases works by Finnish composers Sibelius and Magnus Lindberg, featuring NZSO Concertmaster and fellow Finn Vesa-Matti Leppänen.
Pietari Inkinen will conduct with the NZSO in Hamilton’s BNZ Theatre. PHOTO: NZSO.
Leppänen will also return to Hamilton on December 11 to direct the NZSO’s Summer Tour at the DR John Gallagher Concert Chamber. Soprano Anna Lease will join him for a programme of music by Baroque Giovanni Pergolesi and French composure Jean-Philippe.
NZSO Chief Executive Marc Feldman felt the 2026 season featured an interesting mix of classic and new material that hinted at a new era for the national orchestra.
“The season is centred around the concept of a classical haven, enabling us to embark on an exciting musical journey. It features a remarkable collection of cherished, timeless works alongside new pieces and discoveries that enhance the beauty and power of the concert experience.”
Vesa-Matti Leppänen will perform with the NZSO. PHOTO: NZSO.
The announcement of the new shows comes after a successful opening week for the theatre. Last Monday’s opening night, featuring To The Stars/Ki ngā Whetū, punters packed out the 1300-seat venue.
The reviews were delighted as visitors remarked on the stunning design of the theatre and the talented entertainment. Excitement only built as the weekend approached.
Soul singer Teeks played on Friday and was followed by Sir Dave Dobbyn strumming out classics from his Selected Songs Tour. Fans were out in droves on the streets and popping in to Hamilton’s hospo spots with the Hamilton Hotel sold out several nights of the week.
The star-studded roll out will continue this week with British pop superstar Sophie Ellis-Bextor coming to the theatre on February 3, which will be the theatre’s first international act.