For two days and four set times, the classic John Williams score for the original “Home Alone” movie will come to the Walt Disney Concert Hall on Saturday, Dec. 21, and Sunday, Dec. 22. Conducted by David Newman, the concerts offer a unique way of experiencing the iconic film while also providing families a chance to introduce it to a new generation. Similar to other holiday concerts at the Hall, children two and up are allowed, allowing guests to bring the whole family to a concert that combines cinema and music together. On Saturday and Sunday, two set times are available: 2 PM and 8 PM.

Tickets for all four set times are available now. For other shows at the Hall and other venues in LA, you can win tickets by subscribing to our newsletter and being among the first to know when we’re doing a giveaway. Additionally, follow us on Instagram so you don’t miss any announcements about this concert or any other in the future.

Words: David Sosa

De facto Christmas movie

Whenever the topic of holiday-themed films comes up, the “Home Alone” movies are bound to be among the first few to be mentioned, if not the first. The first installment, starring Macaulay Culkin, Daniel Stern, and Joe Pesci, perfected the formula that later additions to the franchise replicated. The original 1990 movie stands the test of time, ranking among others such as “Elf” and “A Christmas Story” while earning its own reputation as the kind of lovable film that can be enjoyed at any point of the year.

On top of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra playing the music, the concerts will also screen the movie, ensuring there’s a visual component to keep kids’ interest. At the same time, those who have seen “Home Alone” countless times can experience it in a format that will make it feel as though they’re seeing it for the first time.

Among John Williams’ best

While he’s best known for his work on big blockbusters like “Star Wars” and “Indiana Jones,” “Home Alone” stands out from the rest as a small-scale film made grand by his whimsically riveting score. But perhaps more outstanding is how popular the score for “Home Alone” is across streaming services, well out-pacing anything else he’s done in more than ​​seven decades. David Newman will be conducting Williams’ music, having scored several movies himself, ranging from “Matilda” to “Anastasia.”

Few other movies could say their scores are synonymous with December the same way zeitgeist mainstays like “Jingle Bell Rock” are firmly cemented in the holiday season. Williams’ version of “Carol of the Bells,” which plays during the scene where Kevin visits the church, is likely the most well-known version of the composition in the modern era, surpassing the Peter Wilhousky and Mykola Leontovych originals in popularity. That ability to make even preexisting music his own is among the many reasons why Williams is one of the best conductors to live.

Introducing a classic through classical music

Although “Home Alone” came out in 1990, that doesn’t mean it has to be left behind in the past. With children ages two and older allowed at the concert, families can share a movie they grew up watching with their little ones. At the same time, they can potentially introduce them to classical music in a fun and exciting way, opening up a door for children to explore when they’re older. For kids looking for more beyond the music, the concerts are preceded by an ugly sweater contest and “Home Alone” trivia game at 1 PM in BP Hall, giving families a chance to familiarize their kids while participating in a group activity. And with the set times, scheduled at 2 PM and 8 PM, there’s no need to worry about bedtimes or school nights.

ARTISTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

BEST NEW MUSIC

You don’t have to snow yourself in with just “Home Alone” at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Jennifer Hudson makes her return to music with her latest album, The Gift of Love, three days earlier on Dec. 18. On the eve of Christmas Eve, Grammy-award-winning jazz trumpeter and pianist Arturo Sandoval brings jazz to the holidays on Monday, Dec. 23. Before 2025 arrives, ring in the new year with DJ D-Nice and a slew of guests on Tuesday, Dec. 31.