The Music of John Williams vs Hans Zimmer

Presented by The Great British Film Orchestra

Experience a breathtaking celebration of John Williams, Hans Zimmer and the greatest film scores ever written, brought to life by a chamber orchestra.

Event details

Tickets
£25.00 - £60.00
Date
Wednesday 15 April 2026, 18:45
Venue
Chichester Cathedral
Category
Concerts, Music
Book now

Step into a world where cinematic music history is brought to life. This year, The Great British Film Orchestra proudly embarks on a spectacular UK-wide tour, presenting The Music of John Williams vs Hans Zimmer - an orchestral duel between two titans whose scores have defined generations of storytelling.

For over half a century, John Williams has shaped the sound of wonder itself. His unforgettable themes for Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Superman, Jurassic Park and more have become modern mythology - fanfares that summon heroes, awaken galaxies and stir the imagination of millions. His music is symphonic grandeur at its purest, rooted in classical tradition yet alive with adventure, heart and timeless magic.

Opposing him stands Hans Zimmer, the architect of bold, thunderous, revolutionary sound. With groundbreaking scores for The Dark Knight, Gladiator, The Lion King, Inception and beyond, Zimmer reinvented the very language of film music. His fusion of orchestra, electronics, and relentless rhythm forged a new cinematic era - powerful, primal, unmistakably modern.

Bringing these monumental worlds to the stage is The Great British Film Orchestra, one of the UK’s premier symphonic ensembles devoted to the art of film music. Renowned for their rich, commanding sound and vivid performances, this chamber orchestra transforms every concert into a widescreen experience - transporting audiences from ancient coliseums and distant galaxies to enchanted kingdoms and shadowed cityscapes.

This extraordinary touring production is more than a concert - it is a celebration of two musical legends whose work has shaped the emotional core of cinema itself. Expect soaring strings, heroic brass, electrifying percussion and moments of pure, breathtaking spectacle as Williams’ iconic themes meet Zimmer’s thunderous power in a night of symphonic glory.

John Williams. Hans Zimmer. One orchestra. Infinite adventure.

Timings - Friday 24 April

Doors open - 7.00pm (last entry 7.30pm)
Show - 7.45pm - 9.00pm

Please note that this is an external production by Xperience Live

Access Tickets & Essential Companions
If you need support due to a disability or health condition, you can purchase an Access Ticket, which includes a complimentary Essential Companion ticket for your registered carer.

Eligibility:
Accepted proof includes:

  • Access Card (Nimbus Disability) / Hynt / CEA / DID / UK Disabled ID
  • Blue Badge, Freedom Pass, Disabled Persons Railcard
  • Certificate of Visual or Dual Sensory Impairment
  • Official confirmation of deafness or hearing aid use
  • Assistance Dog ID
  • Evidence of disability-related benefits (e.g. DLA, PIP, War Pension, AFIP, ESA, Attendance Allowance, Direct Payments, or Social Care Package)
  • Letter from a medical or social care professional confirming disability (Equality Act 2010)
  • Equivalent international ID

Essential Companion Eligibility:

Essential Companion tickets are available to Access Ticket holders who require the support of another person to attend the event safely & comfortably. This may include assistance with mobility, communication, personal care, medical needs or accessing facilities. Eligibility is assessed based on the accepted proof listed above and the Essential Companion must accompany the Access Ticket holder for the duration of the event.

FAQs

What facilities are at the Cathedral?
  • Toilet facilities are available in the Cathedral (including an accessible toilet with changing facilities).
  • Ramps throughout the Cathedral allow step-free access.
  • A bar will be available in the Cathedral serving pre-concert and interval drinks
  • Food and drink is available for eat-in or takeaway from Cloisters Kitchen & Garden (open daily from 9.00am - 5.00pm).
How do I get to the Cathedral?
  • The Cathedral is in the heart of Chichester, close to the Market Cross, the centrepoint of the City’s main pedestrianised shopping streets. The Cathedral’s postcode is PO19 1RP.
  • By car, approach from the M27 (A27) and turn northwards at one of the bypass roundabouts following signs for the city centre. Visitors arriving by car should aim for one of the many public car parks around the City.
  • The Cathedral is less than a 10 minute walk from Chichester’s Train Station, and is opposite a bus stop.
Is the Cathedral accessible?
General Access

Level access into the Cathedral is available through the South West Door, which is marked 40 on the Cathedral Plan.

Within the Cathedral and the Cathedral precincts there are ramps for easy level access. The Cathedral has three wheelchairs which may be used, free of charge, on a first-come first-served basis. 

Toilets

Toilet facilities are available in the North Transept opposite the Treasury(including an accessible toilet with changing facilities).

Parking

There are a limited number of Accessible parking spaces situated on the approach to the Cathedral via West Street. These spaces can be used free of charge provided the vehicle is displaying a blue badge. 

For further information on Accessible parking in Chichester please click here.

Dogs

Only Guide, Therapy and Assistance Dogs are welcome in the Cathedral for events.

If you are planning a visit to the Cathedral and have any questions regarding access please contact us, 01243 782595 or info@chichestercathedral.org.uk

Can you help with my ticket?

Please note that Chichester Cathedral is not responsible for the Box Office for this event. For ticketing queries, please contact info@xperiencelive.co.uk