Edward Scissorhands in Concert

Edward Scissorhands – Live In Concert with the Chicago Philharmonic

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Date: October 24, 2026
Time: 7:30 PM
Venue: The Auditorium

Tickets on sale Friday, March 27 at 10:00 AM.

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About the Show:

The Auditorium and Chicago Philharmonic present Edward Scissorhands in Concert, featuring GRAMMY®‑winning composer Danny Elfman’s acclaimed score performed live to picture. Since its release in 1990, Edward Scissorhands has become one of the most celebrated collaborations between Elfman and director Tim Burton, with critics frequently citing the score as a defining element of the film’s emotional world.

Elfman’s music blends fantasy, innocence, and longing through a small set of core themes that shift meaning throughout the story. Analysts note that the score is anchored by two central motifs: a choral “lullaby” theme expressing Edward’s inner life and a graceful waltz associated with his origin, both of which evolve as the narrative unfolds. Elfman has described Edward’s theme as “the heart of the character,” intentionally saving its full statement for Edward’s first on‑screen appearance.

The score’s distinctive blend of choir, orchestra, and storybook textures has been widely praised for shaping the film’s dreamlike atmosphere. Experience the film’s iconic imagery and Elfman’s unforgettable music brought to life by the Chicago Philharmonic in one immersive evening at The Auditorium.

Learn More About the Score

About the Chicago Philharmonic

Founded in 1989 by musicians of the Lyric Opera Orchestra, the Chicago Philharmonic Society is dedicated to reimagining the orchestra concert experience. With nearly 200 musician members and a unique system of musician governance, Chicago Philharmonic is recognized as one of the most versatile, innovative, and ambitious orchestras in the country.

Chicago Philharmonic proudly collaborates with the world’s greatest artists across multiple genres. Past partnerships include Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Joshua Bell, Kishi Bashi, The Joffrey Ballet, English National Ballet, Tank and the Bangas, William Basinski, American Ballet Theatre, Ryan Speedo Green, and more.

Since Crain’s Chicago Business 40 Under 40 honoree Terell Johnson became Executive Director in 2021, the orchestra has continued to expand its artistic reach and push the boundaries of symphonic performance. Notable recent milestones include a history-making debut at Lollapalooza as the first orchestra to perform at the festival, a sold-out Carnegie Hall debut with Sleeping At Last, and a world premiere tribute to Whitney Houston at Ravinia Festival. From groundbreaking live film concerts to dynamic collaborations with today’s most exciting artists, Chicago Philharmonic remains at the forefront of innovation and inclusion in the city’s performing arts landscape.