Ready, Set Listen! Symphonic Dances

Thinking of taking the toddlers to the Opera House but worried they’ll try to conduct the orchestra with a half-eaten Vegemite sandwich? Fear not. ‘Ready, Set Listen!’ is a brilliant, bite-sized introduction to classical music designed specifically for the 0–5 crowd. This isn’t your stuffy, ‘sit-still-and-shush’ kind of concert. Set in the intimate Studio, it’s all about interactive listening and movement. This May, the focus is on Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances, where the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s finest musicians break down big, catchy tunes into a 30-minute adventure that fits perfectly between nap times. Led by children’s entertainer Emily Who, the performance features comfortable floor seating, meaning your little maestros can wiggle, dance, and explore the sounds in a relaxed environment. It’s the perfect way to ignite their imagination and spark a lifelong love of music without the pressure of a traditional concert hall setting. Plus, you get to say you took the kids to the Opera House for a bit of culture, which is worth at least three parenting gold stars. Tickets are a steal at $25, but they move faster than a toddler towards a muddy puddle, so get in quick!