Join the Ministry
If you love the club classics from the early days but also enjoy your music delivered on the strings of violins, Ministry of Sound Classical is, without a doubt, the gig for you.
By Tierney Seccull
Founded in 1991, Ministry of Sound (MoS) quickly established its reputation of being the home of dance music. With a nightclub in London and its own record label, the multi-media entertainment biz has broken beyond the boundaries of the UK over the last three decades, winning legions of devout followers across the world, this magazine’s editor included.
Releasing compilation hit after compilation hit, including releases under the Hed Kandi brand, and hosting dance parties worldwide, MoS’ idea to play club bangers backed to a classical orchestra was a bold one, but one that hasn’t fallen on deaf ears.
After selling out concerts across the country, it’s the Top End’s turn to relive club favourites with Ministry of Sound Classical at Darwin Amphitheatre. One special guest taking to the stage is Miss Connie, who says MoS has played an important part in the evolution of her band Sneaky Sound System.
“Ministry of Sound was so supportive of us from the very beginning, you know. We were always included on the Annuals [compilations], we kind of worked together, it was a double-edged sword … I think one of my favourite memories was actually playing at Ministry of Sound in London,” she says.
Also making an appearance are vocalists Reigan, Lady Lyric and Ben Woolner (SAFIA), as well as local legends Caiti Baker, Max Fredericks and DJ UK. The whole shebang includes supports Groove Terminator, Sneaky Sound System, Touch Sensitive, John Course and more, all backed by a live orchestra and band.
As much as the crowds have loved hearing these tunes reimagined, Miss Connie says it’s a buzz to perform hit tracks in a classical context.
“I think when you put an orchestra behind anything it sounds epic, you know? That’s why we love going to the movies … It just kind of adds another depth, another level,” she says.
“If you’re talking about nostalgia, it really gets into your heart strings. And the beauty of the strings [in the orchestra] draws up an emotion, you’re already there with a memory and it really brings it home. It’s like having a scone with cream on the top!”
Celebrate 30 years of Ministry of Sound, and dance through the laser beams under the stars and palm trees, the whole experience veiled in some serious nostalgia.
Ministry of Sound Classical
WHEN SAT 11 JUN | 2-11PM
AT DARWIN AMPHITHEATRE
COST $99.95-$149.95
INFO yourcentre.com.au
