Review: Empty seats, no Dudamel: L.A. Phil opens its Hollywood Bowl season on somber notes
Briefly

The Los Angeles Philharmonic commenced its 103rd season at the Hollywood Bowl under pleasant weather, yet experienced low attendance, raising concerns over empty seats despite solid ticket sales. The absence of Gustavo Dudamel, barred from traveling due to a Venezuela travel ban, further added to the evening's somber tone as he would only be present for one week. The program showcased Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, highlighting relevant political themes. The Bowl's upgrades post-wildfires offered a glimpse of normalcy amid broader tensions, with a noticeable shift toward an overall subdued atmosphere this summer.
The Los Angeles Philharmonic opened its 103rd season at the Hollywood Bowl amidst idyllic weather, yet a notable absence and empty seats hinted at underlying tensions.
The evening featured Rachmaninoff and Prokofiev, but the lack of Gustavo Dudamel for the season was a significant point of concern reflected in attendance.
The Bowl’s facilities have improved slightly since the January wildfires, but political themes from the abundance of Russian music added to an ambiance of caution this summer.
The evening brought together a blend of beauty and somberness, capturing a moment in time that echoed the mood of the broader world outside the concert hall.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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