Picasso Symphony: SSO’s Brush With Brilliance
Move over Paris! Saskatoon is about to become the canvas for an extraordinary celebration of music and art as the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra presents the Canadian premiere of Picasso Symphony.
The masterpieces of Pablo Picasso are brought to life on a giant screen while the orchestra provides the soundtrack. This is an immersive, multi-media experience transforming the concert hall into an art gallery.
Creating this concert experience has deepened my connection with Picasso
Creator Jason Michael Paul at the premiere of Picasso Symphony in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo Provided)
Created by internationally acclaimed producer Jason Michael Paul who, with the blessing of Picasso’s family and Picasso Succession Paris, the organization that looks after the Picasso estate, began assembling the show from the 50,000 images of the late artist’s work. Picasso Symphony takes audiences on a chronological journey through the life and work of one of the world’s most influential artists.
“We really shot for the stars on this project. We’ve got the largest database in the world with images of Picasso’s work from 1881 all the way until his death in 1973,” says Paul. “Creating this concert experience has deepened my connection with Picasso. Seeing it on the stage, is a culmination of emotion after years of pouring my heart and soul into it. Having the team at Picasso Succession tell me they stand by it 100% is so satisfying.”
Picasso was able to see the world from all different angles
Kevin Zakresky curated the soundtrack for Picasso Symphony. (Photo Provided)
Saskatoon-born conductor Kevin Zakresky served as the music director on the project, choosing the pieces that accompany Picasso’s artistic evolution. He says it was a dream assignment.
“It was the greatest thrill,” says Zakresky. “Music is usually prescribed to us, but with this show I was given a blank slate. Choosing the music was about representing where he was physically in his life, and the different periods he went through as an artist. Picasso was able to see the world from all different angles.”
Having the Canadian debut of this new show in our city is a phenomenal opportunity
The result is a masterpiece in its own right, featuring works by composers like de Falla, Villa- Lobos, Britten, and Picasso’s close friend Igor Stravinsky. As Picasso’s artistic world expands on screen, so does the music. This performance was a perfect fit for the SSO season.
2025 Picasso Symphony debut in Fort Worth, Texas. (Photo Provided)
“We’re leaning into experiences that you can only get from a night out at the symphony,” says SSO CEO and Creative Producer Mark Turner. “Saskatoon already has this cool connection with Picasso’s work thanks to the Frank and Ellen Remai Foundation and the collection of art work at the Remai Modern. Having the Canadian debut of this new show in our city is a phenomenal opportunity.”
I’m so proud to share this show with the community
For Zakresky, this premiere is about more than music and art. It’s also a special homecoming, particularly because the first rehearsal in Saskatoon falls on November 4th – his birthday.
“The last time I was in Saskatoon on my birthday was 45 years ago,” laughs Zakresky. “There’s something very special about working with the SSO and I’m so proud to share this show with the community. I want everyone to be wowed.”
Picasso Symphony
Saturday Nov. 7
7:30p.m.
TCU Place
Tickets $34 – $104
For all the information follow this link.
