Classic Kids: Carnival of the Animals

Classic Kids: Carnival of the Animals invites families to stomp, swoop and swim through a musical parade of creatures with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. The program centres on Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals and adds the world premiere of four new MSO-commissioned movements by Cybec Young Composer in Residence Andrew Aronowicz, celebrating Australian animals including the platypus, frog, cockatoo and giant diprotodon. Cybec Assistant Conductor Daniel Corvaia leads the orchestra, with ABC presenter and “nature nerd” Dr Ann Jones guiding young audiences through the adventure. The approximately 50-minute concert has no interval and is designed for children, families, first-time concertgoers and anyone who enjoys imaginative music and wildlife stories. Performances are on Saturday 29 August 2026 at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Southbank VIC 3006: 10:30am (selling fast) and 12:30pm. The 12:30pm session is a relaxed performance. All tickets are $28. An $8 transaction fee applies per order. Book through the official Melbourne Symphony Orchestra ticket page. Hamer Hall is wheelchair, walker and mobility-scooter accessible, with assistive listening devices and service-animal access. The relaxed 12:30pm performance offers a downloadable visual story, a relaxed attitude to noise and movement, house lights kept on, open doors, chill-out break areas, flexible general-admission seating and trained staff. Contact the MSO or Arts Centre Melbourne before booking if you require a wheelchair space or other assistance.