James Bond - Skyfall in Concert - Review

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Fri 04 Apr 2025

On a remarkable evening in Brisbane, the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) took its audience on an exhilarating journey through the world of James Bond, with Vanessa Scammell at the helm for their stunningSkyfall concert at the Brisbane Convention Centre.

We were agog to watch the movie while we experienced composer Thomas Newman’s BAFTA-winning original score – the only Bond score to win one - performed live by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

There was a palpable “buzz’ as the audience arrived, some dressed up in tuxedos and cocktail dresses, and paused at the stunning Aston Martin in the foyer.

The performance was a thrilling fusion of cinematic excellence and orchestral precision, bringing the Bond soundtrack to life in a way that engaged and impressed.

Vanessa Scammell, known for her mastery in both classical and contemporary repertoires, shone brightly as the conductor – tall, slim, elegant and blonde, she epitomised the Bond ethos and, with her dynamic presence and infectious energy, effortlessly bridged the world of orchestral sophistication and cinematic grandeur.

The QSO was in peak form, with every section of the orchestra playing with flair and sensitivity. The brass section was bold and triumphant, reflecting Bond’s unyielding strength, while the strings echoed the elegance and mystery that permeate the spy’s world. Meanwhile, the percussion section created an infectious drive, while the woodwinds brought a touch of refinement and intrigue to the evening. Scammell's nuanced direction allowed the live music to mirror the intensity and emotion of the film's most iconic moments.

The blending of the orchestra's sound with the visuals on screen proved to be an almost perfect marriage. “Almost” because the orchestra’s impact and presence at times diverted our attention away from the action – but in a good way.

Perhaps the most memorable moments came during the quieter, more intimate scenes. Scammell’s subtle control allowed the orchestra to step into the background and support the visual storytelling in a delicate, almost haunting manner.

The moment when the orchestra gently underscored Adele’s iconic vocals in 'Skyfall' was nothing short of magical - a serene and yet powerful experience.

Throughout the evening, Scammell’s interpretation was always fresh, but at the same time, she respected the essence of each piece. The result was a performance that was both respectful of James Bond's legacy and an invigorating reimagination of what a live orchestral experience can be.

Add Craig, Fiennes and Dench, car chases, roof-top nail-biting action, explosions, intrigue and glamour – what could go wrong?

The capacity audience may well have had some rusted-on Bond aficionados and some QSO groupies. And there was something for everyone in the show.



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