THE long-awaited Proms in the Park with the world class Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra gets underway today at Meyrick Park.

Kicking off with what’s described as a Relaxed Family Afternoon concert, there will be musical treats for the whole family featuring a matinee concert by the BSO, as well as performances from other BSO ensembles and plenty of audience participation

The full force of the orchestra will be on show tomorrow night to mark the 50th anniversary of the first lunar landing.

The BSO is celebrating with an evening of Galactic Classics featuring the best of classical music about space, and will reach its climax with a performance of Holst’s The Planets in full, accompanied by choreographed lasers, lights, fireworks and the latest images from our solar system.

On the last night, Saturday August 3, the BSO Proms in the Park weekend culminates with a night of nostalgia with the orchestra’s Symphonic 80s Spectacular, featuring tunes such as Toto’s Africa, Elton John’s I’m Still Standing and other classic numbers from David Bowie, Madonna and Ultravox.

Performing these classics alongside the orchestra, will be a line-up West End stars including Oliver Tompsett, best known for his performances in We Will Rock You and Wicked.

The evening will be topped off with the return of the stunning ‘son et lumiere’ laser and pyrotechnics show.

As always visitors are invited to attend in themed fancy dress.

* Gates will open at 4pm today and 6pm on Friday and Saturday for picnics. For more information, visit bsolive.com