George Hinchliffe's Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

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Allison Burke

George Hinchliffe's Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain

press release: George Hinchliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain will celebrate the joys of the ukulele when it performs in Shannon Hall at Memorial Union on March 31 at 7:30 p.m. The all-strumming and all-singing Orchestra members will reimagine musical classics during the fun-filled performance.

Musicians George Hinchliffe and Kitty Lux founded the Ukulele Orchestra in 1985. What began as “a bit of fun” quickly became a worldwide sensation that skyrocketed the group to stardom. Over the past 37 years, the Orchestra has released more than 30 successful albums and has performed thousands of sold-out shows in renowned music halls, such as the Sydney Opera House, Royal Albert Hall and Carnegie Hall.

With a repertoire that ranges from rock anthems to classical masterpieces to post-punk melodies, members of the Orchestra often reinterpret songs into styles different from the original recordings. Orchestra members embed their signature comedy into every piece they perform, no matter the genre.

The Orchestra consists entirely of ukuleles, ranging from soprano to bass in all different shapes and sizes. In addition to playing the ukulele and singing, each Orchestra member also wears concert attire in a parody of the traditional concert experience, creating an intimate atmosphere for the audience in which comedy and fun are not only allowed but encouraged.

The March 31 performance will consist of two 50-minute halves, with a program to be announced from the stage.

“We’ve had the ‘Ukes’ here before, and they are always a hit. It’s an all-ages show with their humor and interactive approach,” Wisconsin Union Theater Director Elizabeth Snodgrass said. “And of course, they’re superb musicians as well as entertainers. It’s going to be a good time.”

Patrons can purchase a ticket to the in-person performance through the event webpage or at the Memorial Union Box Office.

Click here for more information about this uplifting performance by George Hinchliffe’s Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.