Cynthia Erivo with the San Diego Symphony Orchestra

Photography by Vanessa Dubois/XPOZD Photography

August 17, 2025 – San Diego, CA

In a night that will be remembered by all in attendance, the San Diego Symphony welcomed Tony, Emmy, and Grammy Award-winning performer Cynthia Erivo to The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park for an unforgettable evening of music under the stars.

Under the masterful baton of conductor Anthony Parnther, the Symphony delivered a stunning performance that beautifully complemented Erivo’s powerhouse vocals and emotional depth. The program featured stirring renditions of classics such as “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face,” “I (Who Have Nothing),” and “Purple Rain,” culminating in a poignant mashup of “Imagine” and “Defying Gravity” that left the audience in awe.

Erivo held the audience spellbound with her powerful presence, emotional depth, and stunning vocal range. Her connection with the crowd was unmistakable—radiating warmth, grace, and a heartfelt sincerity that drew praise from both critics and concertgoers alike.

The collaboration between Erivo, conductor Anthony Parnther, and the San Diego Symphony felt effortless. Their performance struck a perfect balance between the orchestra’s elegance and Erivo’s raw vocal power, earning high praise and marking a true highlight of the Symphony’s summer season.

The San Diego Symphony new season kicks off October 3rd, see the full calendar here