Relax in Boroondara’s picturesque gardens for Summer in the Park free music and cinema events 1 February – 14 March 2020

Boroondara Arts is once again inviting families and friends to enjoy a diverse range of free performances in their local parks and gardens on Saturday evenings from 1 February to 14 March 2020 for the annual Summer in the Park series. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to relax beneath the trees listening to enchanting opera, dance along to fiery Latin rhythms or sit under the stars, enjoying a movie at an outdoor cinema. Bring along a picnic or enjoy a sausage sizzle for a fun summer’s night out.

Jazz in the Park, St James Park, Hawthorn (1 February, 6 pm)

The series begins with Melbourne’s jazz keyboard giant Steve Sedergreen who will be performing hits from his album Points in Time, a collection which highlights the evolution of his music career. The park will provide the ideal setting to kick back and enjoy the soothing, classic elements of jazz.

Soul in the Park, Greythorn Park, Balwyn North (8 February, 6 pm)

Melbourne’s very own funk super-crew will take audiences on an exciting journey of soulful grooves. SOLSMBLY, consisting of a nine-piece rhythm section and three members on vocals and horns, features all-star musical talent including performers from Fulton Street, Kylie Auldist band and The Teskey Brothers among others. Complementing this dynamic performance is another Melbourne powerhouse, Carla Troiano Duo. Carla’s voice and charismatic stage presence have been likened to that of Tina Turner and Adele but there is no denying that Carla has a unique sound that is truly her own. Rounded off by keyboardist Monique Boggia, crowds will be transported by the duo’s blissfully soulful sounds.

Opera in the Park, Canterbury Gardens, Canterbury (15 February, 6 pm)

A key philosophy of The Parlour (pictured left) is the idea that fine music can be enjoyed in relaxed environments away from more traditional settings like concert halls, an idea which melds perfectly with Summer in the Park. Supported by Duo Eclettico, The Parlour focuses on telling stories through their songs as well as traditional operatic ballads. Be treated to an evening of soaring vocals as you listen to your favourite music under the stars.

Cinema in the Park, Riversdale Park, Camberwell (22 February, 6 pm)

Families and cinema lovers have the chance to enjoy blockbuster film The Greatest Showman featuring a star-studded cast including Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron. The film will be preceded by a performance by Glenferrie Brass, one of Australia’s leading brass bands. Moviegoers can relax on the lawns of Riversdale Park as they snack on picnics and get transported to 1850s New York by the cinematography of The Greatest Showman.

Latin in the Park, Victoria Park, Kew (29 February, 6pm)

Audiences can come along for a night of energetic Latin music with Kekoson who channel the very essence of Cuban street music. With their percussion, trumpet and brass elements, Kekoson will have you dancing the night away to the festive music of Cuba.

Funk in the Park, Markham Reserve, Ashburton (14 March, 6pm)

Families are invited to get funky with five-piece band Dig We Must. Melbourne-based Dig We Must have played to crowds at festivals such as White Night Melbourne and the Wangaratta Jazz and Blues Festival. This riveting performance will be supported by contemporary funk band Speakeasy who draw from their broad influences of soul, reggae, hip hop and jazz.

Summer in the Park is a fun-filled series of music and film for the whole family, taking place in the parks of Boroondara from 1 February to 14 March 2019. More information at boroondara.vic.gov.au/recreation-arts/events/major-events-and-festivals/summer-park.