Prepare to be swept away on an unforgettable adventure as Victorian Opera presents the audacious and vibrant production of Leonard Bernstein’s Candide. This timeless tale, based on Voltaire’s novella, will come to life with a remarkable score that showcases Bernstein’s brilliance and the incredible talents of the Australian ensemble.
Led by the multi-talented Eddie Perfect, who has garnered acclaim for his work in Beetlejuice and Offspring, and Lyndon Watts, the breakout star of Hamilton, this exceptional duo will bring their immense talent to the forefront of this production. Joining them is a cast of Australian music theater and opera royalty, ensuring a performance that will leave audiences breathless.
Candide tells the story of the naive young Candide, who falls in love with the beautiful Cunegonde, portrayed by Katherine Allen. Together, they embark on a journey through a world gone mad, encountering a colorful array of characters, each more eccentric than the last. From the salons of Paris to the jungles of South America, this adventure is filled with love, laughter, catastrophe, and unexpected twists.
Under the direction of Dean Bryant, this bold retelling of Candide’s story takes place in a post-apocalyptic setting, offering a fresh perspective on this operatic classic. Set and Costume Designer Dann Barber and Lighting Designer Matt Scott will transform the grand Palais Theatre in St Kilda into a visually stunning backdrop for this boundary-pushing production. With Orchestra Victoria, conducted by Maestro Benjamin Northey, providing the symphonic magic, audiences will be transported to “The Best of All Possible Worlds.”
This production of Candide marks the beginning of Victorian Opera’s commitment to re-examining the great classics of music theater. Under the new leadership of Artistic Director Stuart Maunder AM, this program promises to deliver captivating performances that celebrate the power of love and resilience.
Artistic Director Stuart Maunder AM expressed his excitement, stating, “Candide is a glorious roller coaster of a show that continues to explore challenging themes with dazzling energy. With a world-class ensemble cast, brilliant creative team, magnificent design, and Orchestra Victoria on stage, we’ve crafted a production that captures the essence of Voltaire’s wit and satire while celebrating the power of love and resilience. A vaudeville extravaganza!”
Director Dean Bryant added, “Candide combines a rollercoaster story with an incandescent score into a piece that asks what it means to live a valuable life. I can’t wait to take this troupe of clowns with glorious voices on the romp that Bernstein composed out of Voltaire’s imagination.”
Tickets for Candide are now on sale. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this audacious and unforgettable production. It’s time to immerse yourself in the world of Candide and experience the magic of Victorian Opera.