Leeds City Council and Opera North are excited to announce the return of the beloved 80s Classical to Millennium Square on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
Now in its sixth sensational season, the event will feature iconic artists such as Kim Wilde, Roland Gift from ‘Fine Young Cannibals’, ‘Go West’, and Jaki Graham. Attendees can look forward to an evening brimming with nostalgia, fantastic music, and unforgettable moments. The 80s Classical event is a grand celebration of the decade, featuring renowned artists performing their greatest hits accompanied by the impressive 50-piece Orchestra of Opera North. Under the skilled direction of conductor Cliff Masterson, the music comes alive in a spectacular fusion of classical and pop.
This year’s event is particularly special as it features the most-charted British female solo artist of the 80s, Kim Wilde. Audiences can expect to hear her iconic songs, from the groundbreaking ‘Kids in America’ to the Billboard Hot 100 leader ‘You Keep Me Hangin On’, and the beloved ‘You Came’. Kim Wilde’s global record sales exceed 10 million albums and 20 million singles.
Adding a fresh dynamic to this year’s line-up, Roland Gift from ‘Fine Young Cannibals’ will make his 80s Classical debut. Known for his captivating voice, Gift will perform timeless hits such as ‘She Drives Me Crazy’ and ‘Good Thing’, sure to enchant the audience. Roland said:
“I’m looking forward to joining 80’s classical for the very first time. It’s always great knowing people want to hear my songs and I’m pleased to be singing them in the Millennium Square where I’ll be accompanied by a full size symphony orchestra; it should be a good night out. See you there, in the square.”
Making her debut on the stage this year is soul sensation Jaki Graham, the esteemed British singer-songwriter known for hits like ‘Set Me Free’ and her outstanding rendition of Chaka Khan’s 1983 classic ‘Ain’t Nobody’. Returning to captivate the audience for a third appearance after their unforgettable performances in 2021 and 2023, the celebrated English pop duo ‘Go West’ will once again bring their dynamic presence to Millennium Square.
Winners of the Brit Award for British Breakthrough Act in 1986 and continuing to enjoy international acclaim, ‘Go West’ will perform beloved tracks including ‘We Close Our Eyes’, ‘Call Me’, and ‘King of Wishful Thinking’, the latter of which gained fame from its feature in the romantic comedy ‘Pretty Woman’ (1990).
Organized by Leeds City Council and in collaboration with Opera North, the 80s Classical event is masterfully crafted by the esteemed composer, arranger, and conductor Cliff Masterson, working alongside his long-time collaborator and Musical Director, Steve Anderson. Cliff said:
“We’re thrilled that 80s Classical is becoming a tradition at Millennium Square. This year, we’re excited to welcome back fantastic artists like Kim Wilde and ‘Go West’, as well as introduce the incredible Roland Gift and Jaki Graham to the 80s Classical family. Together with the Opera North Orchestra, this promises to be another epic night and a must-see 80s hits extravaganza in Leeds.”
The outstanding ensemble of backing vocalists for the 80s Classical event, featuring Bianca Claxton, Nathan James, and Adetoun Anibi, will return to the stage to deliver a range of 80s anthems and beloved favorites. Audiences are in for a thrilling evening as 80s icons take the stage to perform their timeless hits, backed by the full, symphonic harmony of the Orchestra of Opera North. Millennium Square will be buzzing with energy as fans join in singing the iconic songs of the 80s, fostering a unique communal experience that celebrates this memorable era in music.
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture said:
“It’s amazing to see Opera North returning to Millennium Square and to be bringing another unforgettable musical occasion to the heart of Leeds. Millennium Square a unique and fantastic place to watch a live performance and the perfect venue to showcase the depth and talent of our local musicians in spectacular fashion. These events are always one of the highlights of our vibrant calendar of events in Leeds, and I’m sure this will be no different.”
Tickets for the 80s Classical event are now available for purchase at www.millsqleeds.com (0113 376 0318) and www.operanorth.co.uk (0113 223 3600). General standing tickets are priced at £38.50, and a limited number of reserved seats are offered at £47.85, which includes booking fees. For an additional £11.00, attendees can opt for a VIP/express bar upgrade.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, 26 July 2025, and will take place in a specially designed outdoor arena at Millennium Square. Doors will open at 6:30 pm, with DJs starting at 6:45 pm and the main performances commencing at 8:15 pm. Attendees can enjoy a licensed bar and various street food options available on-site.
