The Fantasy Orchestra Returns for Electric ‘Tropicalia’ Spectacle at Union Chapel
Saturday 20th July at Islington’s Union Chapel – tickets here
80+ musicians + special guest appearances
Follows previous Radiohead and Jimi Hendrix-inspired performances
Community orchestra and choir, The Fantasy Orchestra, with 80+ members spanning the UK and Paris, will come together on 20th July to present a colourful repertoire of vibrant Brazilian Tropicalia, spotlighting the controversial ‘60s movement.
The event will pay homage to the rich legacy and influences of legendary Tropicalia artists including Gal Costa, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Tom Zé, and Jorge Ben. Tropicalia music emerged as a revolutionary response to the political and cultural climate in Brazil during the late 1960s, and blends traditional Brazilian rhythms with psychedelic rock and avant-garde experimentation.
The Fantasy Orchestra, based in Bristol, Paris, West Yorkshire and Nantes, aims for "World Peace One Note At a Time." This symphonic brigade of professional and amateur musicians are known for their vibrant mix of film soundtracks, rock and pop classics, and obscure treasures, enhanced by psychedelic flair and rousing choral arrangements. They released their debut album ‘The Bear and Other Stories’ in 2020.
The group is led by multi-instrumentalist Jesse D Vernon. Vernon’s musical projects include 90s indie trailblazers The Moonflowers and his own outfit, MorningStar. A long time collaborator of Portishead’s Jim Barr and This Is The Kit’s Kate Stables, he also founded The Keepers Of The Fire vocal group and the improvisational Full Moon Orchestra.
This upcoming show marks the third year that Union Chapel welcomes The Fantasy Orchestra, which previously delighted audiences with their explorations of Radiohead and interpretations of Jimi Hendrix and the psychedelic movement.
Jesse D Vernon, The Fantasy Orchestra lead, commented: “This event will bring together a joyous set of Brazilian music. Its colourful wit, wry humour and inclusive attitude fit our community perfectly – we feel a lot of affinity with the Tropicalia movement and the songs haven't aged one bit!”
More Information:
All seats are unreserved and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Arrive early to secure preferred seating and anticipate potential queuing.
Bar and Refreshments: The bar, located on the first floor, opens at the door time and remains open after the show. Alcohol is restricted to the bar area, but soft drinks and snacks are allowed in the main space. Outside food and drink are not permitted. Empty water bottles can be refilled at stations inside the venue.
Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible with ramps and a platform lift to the upstairs bar. For specific accessibility needs, email events@unionchapel.org.uk upon purchasing your ticket.
Public Transport: Union Chapel is approximately 200m from Highbury & Islington station, served by the Victoria line, the London Overground and mainline train services. Only platforms for London Overground lines are accessible by wheelchair.