Category: ARTS & CULTURE

New Magic Flute at Sydney Opera House

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Get ready to be enthralled as Opera Australia unveils an exciting new production of Mozart’s classic, The Magic Flute, at the iconic Joan Sutherland Theatre in Sydney Opera House. Mark your calendars for this legendary performance, running from 1st February to 16th March 2024. Award-winning director Kate Gaul makes her directorial debut with Opera Australia, conjuring a fantastical world that promises a delightful and enchanting adventure suitable for all ages. The production will feature Australia’s leading opera and musical theatre artists. It’s an exciting opportunity to witness the talent of Australia’s best, including the OA soprano Stacey Alleaume and musical theatre star Ben Mingay, who will be making their OA debut. An absolute highlight is Australian-Mauritian soprano Stacey Alleaume, who will captivate audiences with her mainstage role debut as Pamina. Mingay, in his OA debut as Papageno, complements Alleaume’s spellbinding performance. For the first time, these two accomplished singing talents will perform together, making it a spectacle not to be missed! After more than two decades performing in leading opera houses across Europe and North America, Australian tenor Michael Smallwood returns home to make his debut at the Joan Sutherland Theatre. Smallwood will reprise his role as Tamino, which he performed to great acclaim for Aalto Theater Essen in 2023. The all-star Australian cast will also feature OA favourites Giuseppina Grech, David Parkin, Jane Ede, Ruth Strutt, Jennifer Black, Kanen Breen, Gregory Brown, and Nathan Lay. We’re equally excited to welcome back Indyana Schneider, making her principal role debut for the Company as Second Lady…. Read More

Sheldon Riley’s Show-Stopping Performance on ‘America’s Got Talent – Fantasy League’

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Australian multi-instrumentalist and avant-garde performer, Sheldon Riley, left everyone astounded with his performance of Loreen’s ‘Tattoo’ on the esteemed stage of ‘America’s Got Talent – Fantasy League’. His riveting rendition of the two-time Eurovision-winning song earned him an overwhelming standing ovation and secured his place in the semi-final. The invitation to return to the ‘America’s Got Talent’ stage for the highly anticipated spinoff series came from none other than Simon Cowell. The unique twist in this series is that each of the star-studded panel of judges curates a team of 10 acts from the 40 most viral and fan-favorite acts, including previous winners from the global franchise. The judges this season include Simon Cowell, Mel B, Heidi Klum, and Howie Mandel. Mel B, familiar with Sheldon’s incredible voice from his time as the runner-up on ‘The Masked Singer AU’, ensured he was one of her first selections in the draft pick. Sheldon, known for his creative prowess, melodic tone, high fashion, and ability to craft each stage performance, is no stranger to the television competition scene. He has previously been a finalist on ‘The Voice All Stars’, a runner-up on ‘The Masked Singer AU’, a winner of ‘Eurovision Australia Decides’, and a finalist at the Eurovision Song Contest 2022 in Turin, Italy. Sheldon’s decision to perform ‘Tattoo’ was not merely a random choice. As a former Eurovision finalist himself, Sheldon has a deep connection with the song and an immense respect for Loreen, the artist behind the hits ‘Tattoo’ and ‘Euphoria’. His goal was to… Read More

Sadler’s Wells new national youth initiative

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It’s time to celebrate the extraordinary talent of young dancers across England as Sadler’s Wells unveils the next cohort of the National Youth Dance Company (NYDC). With 32 dancers aged between 16 and 24, hailing from 21 different towns, cities, and villages, this truly nationwide company is set to take the dance world by storm. Led by Guest Artistic Director Oona Doherty, they will be working on an exciting new piece called Wall, which is set to premiere at Leeds Playhouse on Saturday, April 13th, before embarking on a national tour. Wall is an exploration of Britain through the eyes and voices of young people from around the country. It delves into their thoughts, highlighting both the good and the bad, the old and the new. Through repetitive movements of resistance, stamina, and will, the dancers showcase their strength and beauty, embodying the greatness of Britain. The production promises to be a visual and auditory feast, with music by Turner Prize-winning artist Mark Leckey, lighting design by John Gunning of Malaprop Theatre, and costume design by Ryan Dawson Laight, who has an extensive background in theater and dance. Award-winning photographer and video maker Luca Truffarelli adds his talents as the audio, photo, and video collaborator, while NYDC alumna Nya Bardouille serves as Assistant to the choreographer. After its premiere at Leeds Playhouse, Wall will embark on a captivating journey to Wakefield, Falmouth, Ipswich, Latitude Festival, Leicester, and London, with a highly anticipated performance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre on Saturday, July 13th. This is an unmissable… Read More

Last chance to see WICKED in Sydney

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The clock is ticking, and time is running out for Sydneysiders to catch the sensational musical extravaganza, WICKED, at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. After an incredible six-month run, the final performance is scheduled for February 4th. But fear not, as the show will soon hit the stage again in Melbourne, commencing performances at the Regent Theatre on March 3rd. Since its arrival in Sydney last August, WICKED has enthralled audiences with its spellbinding performances, leaving them captivated and craving more. With packed houses, glowing reviews from critics, and a flurry of positive buzz on social media, this musical has truly become “Broadway’s Biggest Blockbuster.” “Ingenious and beautiful: WICKED dazzles,” raved the Sydney Morning Herald. The Australian Financial Review applauded the cast’s “exquisite comic timing” and called the production “impressive” and “magical.” AustralianStage.com.au hailed it as “triumphant” and described it as a “dazzling, spectacular production.” Limelight praised the show for its “razzle-dazzle spectacle” and “uplifting girl-power.” Even Studio 10 couldn’t contain their excitement, declaring WICKED as “absolutely incredible” and “extraordinary.” Producer John Frost expressed his delight at the overwhelming response from Sydney audiences and critics alike. He said, “I’m delighted that Sydney has embraced WICKED. The reaction has been overwhelming, and our Australian cast has received universal praise. For 20 years, WICKED has cast its spell over audiences worldwide, and it’s become one of the most beloved musicals ever, especially here in Australia. So, Sydneysiders, grab your tickets now as there are only four more weeks before we move to Melbourne.” Since its premiere on Broadway… Read More

A year of artistic marvels: HOFA gallery’s journey in 2023

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As the curtain falls on another remarkable year, HOFA Gallery reflects on a momentous journey that unfolded throughout 2023. From captivating international art fairs to thought-provoking exhibitions, HOFA Gallery has continued to be at the forefront of promoting cutting-edge contemporary art and embracing diversity. Let’s take a closer look at some of the highlights from this extraordinary year. Art Miami 2023: Redefining Boundaries In December, HOFA Gallery unveiled a breathtaking exhibition at Art Miami 2023. This showcase exemplified the gallery’s unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and fostering inclusivity. Showcasing a curated collection of artworks representing the gallery’s core values and rich history, the exhibition captured the essence of innovation and creative expression. Art Talks with Joseph Klibansky: A Window into Imagination Among the captivating events at Art Miami 2023 was an exclusive interview with acclaimed Dutch artist Joseph Klibansky. In this seventh episode of Art Talks, HOFA Gallery delved into Klibansky’s fascinating world, exploring the intriguing connection between visual perception and implied meaning in his artwork. Renowned for his highly reflective sculptures and radiant monuments, Klibansky invites viewers to question their perceptions and embark on a journey of imagination. Featured Artists: A Tapestry of Creativity HOFA Gallery showcased the works of 75 talented artists from 30 different nationalities throughout the year. From contemporary paintings to sculptures, new media art to generative AI, the gallery’s diverse roster of artists captivated audiences worldwide. Artists like Zheng Lu, Li Jie, Zhuang Hong Yi, Ilhwa Kim, Lyès, and many others left an indelible mark with their thought-provoking and… Read More

Free opera in Melbourne: Opera Australia bringing back Opera For All!

In what promises to be nothing short of spectacular, the concert is set to feature some of the most beloved arias in opera. These pieces will be brought to life by four of Opera Australia’s premier performers, supported by musicians from Orchestra Victoria and under the expert guidance of esteemed opera conductor, Brian Castles-Onion. Fiona Allan, CEO of Opera Australia, has expressed delight in BMW’s continued commitment to the Australian cultural landscape through their Opera for All concerts, stating this partnership helps bring more opera to more people. Equally thrilled is Wolfgang Buechel, CEO of BMW Group Australia, who believes this event will bring joy to the community whilst supporting the arts and culture sector. Fed Square, renowned for its capacity to hold 8,000 people and its reputation as a hub for world-class art and culture, will serve as the perfect backdrop for this event. Mark your calendars for one of the biggest free outdoor opera events in Australia in 2024: the “BMW Opera for All.” An invitation is extended to all for an evening steeped in rich cultural experience and unforgettable opera performances. The anticipation builds as the date draws near. Head to opera.org.au for more

Experience mesmerising Miss Saigon before it closes 16 December!

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Brace yourself for a truly extraordinary love story that has captivated audiences and garnered rave reviews. Don’t miss your chance to witness the breathtaking Australian production of Miss Saigon before its final performance at Her Majesty’s Theatre on Saturday, 16 December. Critics and fans alike have been swept away by this mesmerizing theatrical experience, praising its “hugely talented cast” and deeming it “as powerful and affecting as ever.” Produced by the legendary Cameron Mackintosh, this production of Boublil and Schönberg’s award-winning musical is a must-see event. Taking center stage is the internationally acclaimed performer Seann Miley Moore in the role of The Engineer, alongside the talented Abigail Adriano as Kim and Nigel Huckle as Chris. The stellar cast also features Kerrie Anne Greenland as Ellen, Nick Afoa as John, Laurence Mossman as Thuy, and Kimberley Hodgson as Gigi. Together, they bring depth and emotion to the captivating story. Prepare to be enchanted by the full 24-piece orchestra, which breathes life into the soaring musical score created by the renowned duo behind Les Misérables. From the powerful anthems like “The Heat is On in Saigon” and “Last Night of the World” to the unforgettable melodies of “The Movie in My Mind” and “The American Dream,” the music will transport you to another world. Since its premiere on the West End, Miss Saigon has garnered an impressive 70 major theatre awards, including three Tonys and two Oliviers. It has been performed in 15 different languages, captivating audiences in over 32 countries and 350 cities worldwide. Set against… Read More

Leonardo da Vinci experience Melbourne: a journey into the mind of a genius

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Dedicated to exploring the life of arguably the greatest creative genius the world has ever known, THE LUME Melbourne is thrilled to announce the opening of “Leonardo da Vinci – 500 Years of Genius” in March 2024. This unparalleled experience promises to be the most ambitious, immersive, and breathtaking yet. It’s been two years since Van Gogh at THE LUME forever changed how art is experienced in Australia, presenting masterpieces such as “Starry Nights” in an accessible way that captivated audiences. Now, get ready to step inside the world’s most famous works of art as Mona Lisa and The Last Supper come to life on THE LUME’s colossal canvas at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This ground-breaking presentation allows visitors to be immersed in the grandeur and intricacies of these masterpieces, providing an intimate encounter with the brilliance of Leonardo’s artistry not possible in traditional museum settings. Leonardo da Vinci, an artist, inventor, scientist, philosopher, and musician, transcends his era. Not only did he create masterpieces never surpassed for their beauty, technique, and anatomical accuracy, but his pioneering contributions in architecture, engineering, and even flight laid the foundations for many modern innovations, making his influence more profound and far-reaching than anyone who has followed. As with all experiences at THE LUME, this isn’t your typical stroll through an art gallery. Prepare to enter a world where the lines between art and reality blur. Engage all your senses with sights, sounds, scents, touch, and taste as you navigate through the vast 3,000m² multi-sensory gallery. The… Read More