Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture at Mahaffey Theater on 10/02/26

The Florida Orchestra will open its season with a powerful performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture at the Mahaffey Theater on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee follow-up on Sunday, October 4 at 2:00 p.m. Led by conductor Michael Francis, the program promises a high-energy evening of celebrated orchestral music, complete with cannons, drums and chorus. The concert also includes Rossini’s galloping William Tell Overture, Beethoven’s Wellington’s Victory, and Christopher Theofanidis’ The Gift, featuring tenor Sean Panikkar and the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. The orchestra’s signature season-opening event is designed to deliver a dramatic, crowd-pleasing experience, especially for fans of grand symphonic works. Audience members can arrive an hour early for free pre-concert conversations with the conductor and soloists, offering insight into the music before the performance begins. Program notes by former Tampa Tribune critic Kurt Loft will also provide background on the works. Families are welcome as well, with Classical Kids & Teens ages 5–18 admitted free with a paying adult, subject to availability and advance reservation. Tickets are available online, by phone, or at The Florida Orchestra Ticket Center.