Get ready to don your fedoras and swing into the vibrant world of 1950s Manhattan as the iconic musical Guys & Dolls takes centre stage at the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour in 2025.
For those not in the know, Guys & Dolls is the stuff of legend.
From its Broadway debut in 1950, where it bagged five Tony Awards including Best Musical, to its transformation into a Hollywood flick starring none other than Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando in 1955, this musical has seen it all. Fast forward to its recent smash-hit revival on the West End, and it’s clear the toe-tapping tunes and vibrant dance numbers have a knack for standing the test of time.
Opera Australia isn’t just giving us a standard run of the mill production either. They’re upping the ante with a fresh take helmed by Artistic Director Jo Davies. Known for her flair in directing large-scale operas and musicals across the globe, Jo is ready to bring her magic touch to Sydney’s mammoth outdoor stage. “Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is so magical, just the walk through the venue to reach your seat creates such a sense of anticipation. I’m thrilled to be bringing a beloved musical like Guys & Dolls, with its wild ensemble dance numbers and brilliantly sharp comedy to this incredible stage,” she enthuses.
And what a stage it is.
This is no ordinary platform — it’s a whopper, two and a half times larger than any other in the country. With Brian Thomson, the creative genius behind productions like La Traviata and West Side Story, crafting an all-new set, this is shaping up to be a visual feast. Jo Davies adds, “Presenting this magical 1950’s score with a full orchestra and a talented cast on such an epic scale is an exciting prospect.”
This year’s event is backed by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, ensuring that our harbour shines as bright as the city lights of New York. Not to mention the International Foundation for Arts and Culture and the steadfast support from HSBC as Principal Partner.
So, mark your calendars, for 2025, Sydney Harbour won’t just be about ferries and fish and chips; it’s going to be a slice of Broadway heaven. If you’ve ever wished to see showgirls and gangsters strut their stuff under the Aussie stars, this is your golden ticket.
For infornation, go to the Opera Australia website