Deserts, oceans and six continents get the full-orchestra treatment this September, as the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra brings BBC Planet Earth III Live in Concert to the Cultural Centre — giant screen, full symphonic score, three performances only.
In This Guide
What is Planet Earth III Live in Concert?
It's exactly what it sounds like: BBC Studios' Planet Earth III — filmed over 1,904 days across 43 countries and six continents — projected on the big screen with its score played live by a full orchestra, rather than piped through the television speakers. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra performs the soundtrack by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer, alongside Jacob Shea and Sara Barone, conducted by Vanessa Scammell with vocalist Michelle John.
Expect the same desert-to-ocean sweep of animal drama the series is known for — thrilling, funny and occasionally heart-breaking — but with the emotional weight of a live orchestra underneath it. The concert runs approximately two hours, including an intermission.
BBC Planet Earth III Live in Concert
Some seats have restricted sightlines to the main screen (supplementary screens are provided on both sides of the stage) — check the seating plan before booking. Latecomers are only admitted at a designated point between pieces.
Is it worth going?
Film-with-live-orchestra concerts have become a reliable fixture of the HK Phil's calendar — this isn't their first nature documentary crossover, and the format works because Zimmer's Planet Earth scores were written to carry the emotional beats of the footage in the first place. Hearing that live, in a concert hall built for orchestral sound, is a genuinely different experience from watching it at home.
It also doubles as one of the more reliable family outings on Hong Kong's September calendar — the age guidance starts at three, and a nature documentary with a live orchestra is an easier sell for younger audiences than most classical programming. Book earlier for the Saturday matinee if you're bringing children.
Getting to the Hong Kong Cultural Centre
The Cultural Centre sits at 10 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, right on the harbourfront. From Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, take Exit E, then walk along Salisbury Road — around 5 minutes. Alternatively, East Tsim Sha Tsui Station (West Rail Line) connects via Exit L6 or Exit J, both a short walk from the venue.
For more of the city's live music calendar, see our guide to Candlelight Concerts in Hong Kong or browse our wider music & nightlife section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Mark your calendar
4–5 September 2026 — Hong Kong Cultural Centre Concert Hall. Tickets from HK$220 via URBTIX.