Quebec City will be filled with the nostalgic sounds of the holidays as the Orchestre symphonique de Québec (OSQ) presents a special ciné-concert featuring the beloved 1990 film, Maman, j’ai raté l’avion (Home Alone). The performances, scheduled for December 18th and 19th, 2026, will see the iconic score by John Williams performed live alongside a screening of the film, presented in French.
The event promises a unique cinematic experience, blending the visual charm of the holiday classic with the emotional depth of Williams’s composition. Maman, j’ai raté l’avion, directed by Chris Columbus and produced by 20th Century Fox, has become a staple of the holiday season for many, recounting the story of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister who is accidentally left behind when his family departs for a Christmas vacation and must defend his home from a pair of bumbling burglars. The film’s enduring appeal lies not only in its humor but likewise in its heartwarming portrayal of family and resilience, underscored by Williams’s evocative music.
John Williams’s score for Home Alone is widely celebrated for its ability to capture both the wonder and the loneliness experienced by Kevin, as well as the overall spirit of Christmas. The composer himself has expressed his pleasure in having written the music for the film, and his delight that the OSQ has agreed to perform the score live during the screenings, according to the concert description. The music features festive choral arrangements and tender themes that enhance the film’s emotional impact.
A Live Orchestral Experience
The Orchestre symphonique de Québec, under the direction of Evan Mitchell, will bring Williams’s score to life at the Salle Louis-Fréchette within the Grand Théâtre de Québec. The concerts will feature a choir comprised of students from the music concentration at École Jean-de-Brébeuf and the music-studies program at École secondaire de la Camaradière, adding another layer of richness to the performance. Tickets for the ciné-concerts are available now, with pricing varying based on age: starting at $83.00 for general admission, $60.00 for young adults (17-30), and $50.00 for children (16 and under), including taxes and service fees, as detailed on the Grand Théâtre de Québec website. Grand Théâtre de Québec
The popularity of the film is such that it has become a holiday tradition for many families. As noted by the Grand Théâtre de Québec, director Chris Columbus successfully captured a fresh and innocent perspective on the story, solidifying its place as a must-watch during the festive season.
Williams’s Legacy and the Power of Film Scores
John Williams is one of the most prolific and celebrated film composers of all time, known for his operate on iconic scores such as Star Wars, Jaws, and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. His ability to create memorable and emotionally resonant music has made him a household name. A performance of “Somewhere in My Memory,” a key theme from Home Alone, can be found on YouTube, showcasing the enduring appeal of the music. YouTube. Another performance by the Orchestre Symphonique de la Ville de Saint Amand Les Eaux is also available online. YouTube. The ciné-concert format, where a film is screened with a live orchestral accompaniment, has gained popularity in recent years, offering audiences a new way to experience their favorite movies.
The OSQ’s presentation of Maman, j’ai raté l’avion is part of a growing trend of orchestras performing film scores live, recognizing the cultural significance of these works and the desire of audiences to experience them in a new and immersive way. The event provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the holidays with a beloved film and the timeless music of John Williams.
Looking ahead, the success of this ciné-concert could pave the way for similar events featuring other popular film scores, further enriching the cultural landscape of Quebec City. The OSQ’s commitment to bringing cinematic classics to life with live orchestral performances promises to be a continuing draw for audiences in the years to come.
Share your thoughts on this festive event and your favorite memories of Home Alone in the comments below!