Dazzling drama, betrayal, revenge and an Australian classic reimagined for Opera Australia’s winter season
The Merry Widow: Fabulous, flirty and fun, this visually stunning operetta makes its exciting return.
8 July – 18 August | Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Tickets from $79
Graeme Murphy’s lively rendition of The Merry Widow returns to the Sydney Opera House to kick off OA’s winter season with a bang. Combining Murphy’s signature choreography with glamorous costumes and sets, this is a visually stunning production; an all-singing, all dancing operetta that encapsulates the beauty of the Art Deco era. New Zealand-born international star Emma Pearson and Australian soprano Julie Lea Goodwin will share the role of Hanna, each bringing their own unique and captivating energy.
Alexander Lewis returns to reprise the role of Danilo along with rising star Alexandra Flood who portrays Valencienne in her OA debut. Performed in English and packed with frothy comedic timing, familiar waltzes and tuneful melodies, this production is an opulent party filled with glitz, glamour and old-fashioned romance.
Rigoletto: Jealously, revenge and sacrifice star in Verdi’s masterpiece
21 July- 21 August | Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Tickets from $79
Elijah Moshinsky’s much-loved production of Rigoletto returns to the Sydney Opera House, complete with its delightful La Dolce Vita inspired sets and costumes, including the scene-stealing Fiat 500. Led by Italian conductor Sesto Quatrini, making his Australian debut, this production is a sensational reinvigoration of Verdi’s iconic score, which he demanded be kept under complete secrecy at the time of its premiere. Award-winning baritone Dalibor Jenis reprises his acclaimed performance as the tortured jester, supported by Kang Wang as the Duke and rising star Gemma Nha as the jester’s daughter.
The Drover’s Wife: An all-new Australian opera makes its highly anticipated arrival at the Sydney Opera House
7 – 15 August | Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Tickets from $79
The Drover’s Wife, a brand-new opera based on the play, novel and film created by one of Australia’s leading artists, Leah Purcell, will have its Sydney premiere this August. Written and directed by Purcell and with a ravishing score by George Palmer, this new adaptation of Purcell’s critically acclaimed work promises to intertwine grand opera traditions with contemporary Indigenous storytelling.
Australia’s newest opera star and proud Koa, Kuku Yalanji, Wakka Wakka woman, Nina Korbe, returns to OA after her stunning portrayal as Maria in West Side Storyon Sydney Harbour to take on the lead role of Molly. She will be joined by in-demand First Nations tenor Marcus Corowa who captured the hearts of audiences with his soulful voice and charming stage presence with acclaimed performances in Bran Nue Dae, The Rabbits and the hit musical Beautiful: Carol King the Musical.
La Stupenda: A Joan Sutherland Celebration
20 – 22 August March | Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Tickets from $79
When Joan Sutherland sang the world listened. To mark what would be her 100th birthday, OA will celebrate the soprano, known as La Stupenda (the stupendous one), in a tribute performance that will re-live her great successes in the very theatre that bears her name.
Opera sensation Jessica Pratt who has famously followed in Sutherland’s footsteps as only the third Australian to sing Lucia di Lammermoor at La Scala in Milan, will take centre stage to honour Dame Joan’s career with her own unique coloratura soprano voice. She will be joined by rising star Australian Chinese tenor Kang Wang, both of whom will be led by one of opera’s most exciting musical forces, Speranza Scappucci in her highly anticipated OA debut for this celebration of the voice of the century.
Great Opera Hits:
Popular tunes and exquisite voices delight at the Sydney Opera House
5 July – 16 August | Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, Tickets from $79
A showcase of the world’s greatest arias under the sails of the spectacular Sydney Opera House. Great Opera Hits concerts celebrate exceptional music and the power of the operatic voice. Some of Australia’s finest performers sing recognisable solos, duets and ensemble pieces by esteemed composers, such as Bizet, Mozart, Puccini and Verdi, in a light-hearted 90 minutes of entertainment. A perfect opportunity for Sydney locals and tourists alike to be introduced to the delightful world of opera.
For more information click HERE
