The Cat Empire with the ASO
Thebarton Theatre, 112 Henley Beach Road, 5031 Torrensville Directions
Fri 09.10.2026 19:30
Approximate Running Times: Doors - 6:30 PM Start - 7:30 PM Finish - 10:30 PM The Cat Empire returns to Adelaide for a highly anticipated run of encore performances with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra! Following the overwhelming response to the 2024 collaboration, The Cat Empire again join forces with the ASO for more joyous, uplifting performances. This special concert sees the band re-imagine their catalogue on a grand orchestral scale, blending beloved The Cat Empire classics with bold new arrangements written especially for this collaboration. Drawing on the band's signature mix of Afro-Cuban, Seychellois Creole, Brazilian and flamenco influences, the music is expanded and elevated by the full force of the Orchestra, creating a powerful and immersive live experience. The 2026 encore shows feature world-class flamenco artists, bringing added drama, rhythm and emotion to the stage.
Performers
-
The Cat EmpireAussie icons The Cat Empire have had an illustrious career, spanning decades and genres. Illuminating stages across the globe, the band are a magnetic force that have captivated millions of adoring fans with their high energy performances and explosive sound and visuals. With the band’s infectious groove and vibrancy, audiences are guaranteed to shimmy, shake, and sing their way through a Cat Empire set. Continuing the legacy and the driving force behind a fresh new era for the band is Felix Riebl and Ollie McGill, two of the original three founding members of the group. Breathing energy into the band, the new project will showcase a wonderful collective of musicians who will make sure to retain the core DNA of The Cat Empire but include more collaborations, influences, and diverse artistry. Leaning into a sense of musical curiosity with boundless possibilities, this newfound spirit promises to shine an even brighter light on the band’s exuberant musicality, elevating their sound and broadening their influences. The Cat Empire’s new show will celebrate movement, vibrancy, and playfulness – with a host of new material as well as the crowd-favourites. With a history of multiple platinum records, awards, sold out tours and over 250 million streams – The Cat Empire have officially entered their golden era. Their 10th studio album Bird In Paradise is out now!
-
Adelaide Symphony OrchestraWith a reputation for vitality and versatility, the much loved Adelaide Symphony Orchestra is South Australia’s largest performing arts organisation, established in 1936.
For over 85 years, the ASO has been there to corroborate life and contribute to South Australia’s identity. Today the ASO plays a major role in Adelaide’s cultural and economic vibrancy, and enriches the community through a diverse program of world-class performances.
Each year it extends its audience beyond the concert halls through its community concerts and regional activity together with regular broadcasts on ABC Classics. Additionally the ASO’s comprehensive Learning Series for schools and families directly touches the lives of more than 16,000 children, thereby forging a special connection to music from a young age. In 1998 and 2004 the ASO came to the attention of the international community with its exemplary playing of Wagner’s Ring Cycle.
Delivering diverse and colourful programming with leading international and Australian musicians, it has also enjoyed hugely successful performances with artists such as Ben Folds, Tim Minchin and The Hilltop Hoods.
