The Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Carnival of the Animals is Roaring Into The Sydney Opera House

Take the kids on a wild musical adventure at the Sydney Opera House with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Carnival of the Animals. This fun-filled family concert brings Saint-Saëns’ much-loved musical menagerie to life with elephants, hens and swans, alongside an Australian wildlife twist in Alex Turley’s Animalia.

Perfect for budding music lovers aged 5 to 12, it’s a brilliant way to introduce children to the magic of a live orchestra.

Carnival of the Animals: A Family Concert at the Sydney Opera House

Roll up, roll up and get ready for a trip to the animal kingdom as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra brings Saint-Saëns’ beloved Carnival of the Animals to the beloved Sydney Opera House concert hall.

The family-friendly performance is packed with playful musical characters, from plodding double-bass elephants to pecking hens, brought to life by piano and strings, plus graceful swans gliding through the music on cello.

Adding an Australian flavour to the festivities, Alex Turley’s Animalia weaves the familiar sounds of Australia’s unique wildlife, including emus, koalas and quokkas, into a magical companion piece.

Part of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s Family Events, this concert is designed to fire young imaginations through storytelling and vibrant live performance. It’s a wonderful introduction to the sounds, sights and spectacle of a live orchestra.

Live Instrument Demonstrations

Get a closer look at the instruments behind the music in the Northern Foyer before or after the concert for live instrument demonstrations with the Sydney Symphony Fellows. Demonstrations take place at 9.15 am and 1.30 pm.

Carnival of the Animals is recommended for children aged 5 to 12 and runs for approximately 50 minutes with no interval, making it perfect for younger concertgoers.

Where:  Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House. Bennelong Point, Sydney
When:   Saturday 12 September 2026 | 10 am
Cost:     All Tickets $47

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