Wednesday 30 July 2008

Dr Who Prom - view from an expert

DrWho started as a TV show in Britain about 40 years ago but how it's become "part of the fabric of British society". Everyone knows and loves it. So it was a real stroke of genius for the BBC to make a Dr Who themed Prom. The market is huge - not just kids (of all ages) but their parents, grandparents and anyone bemused by the phenomenom. And no compromise on quality either ! Seriously good music, seriously well played and even a daring new work by Mark Anthony Turnage. (who has little kids but doesn't write "down" to them). It may be cutting edge but people like kids have open minds and don't come with prejudices set in concrete. After all what Dr Who is "about" is facing new challenges.

This was the biggest seller so far this season, tickets selling on the black market for the amount you can pay on your mortgage. So it's proof that imaginative music works ! Congratulations to the BBC ! This is the way to reach people left cold by the (false) elitist image of classical music.

And as proof of concept, here is a review by a genuine member of the target audience, Phoebe Thomas. She's young but no fool ! This is a real expert. Congratulations to her, too. Great stuff ! See:
http://www.musicomh.com/classical/proms/2008-13_0708.htm

No comments: