As we move into spring in Melbourne, Opera Australia really starts to fire-up, putting on some of the country’s most astonishing opera productions for everyone – free and not!
If it’s not the classics like Turandot or The Magic Flute, then you know Opera Australia will put on any combination of other sensational productions to whet your appetite. These four must-see productions are sure to get you going.
METAMORPHOSIS (Howard)
Opera Australia offers a rare and exciting opportunity to experience a chamber opera in an intimate setting this October when it presents the Melbourne premiere of a new production of Australian composer Brian Howard’s Metamorphosis in an all new location; The Coopers Malthouse, Merlyn Theatre. This opera, directed by Tama Matheson, tells the tale of a broken man turned insect and how he and his family grapple with the riveting and terrifying transformation. Brian Howard’s score is percussive, inventive, courageous, and truly reflects a story of social alienation in a modern, inhumane world.
The Coopers Malthouse Merlyn Theatre, 113 Sturt Street, Southbank 25, 26, 27 October 2018 | Tickets $79
LA BOHEME (Puccini)
Known as one of the world’s all-time favourite operas, and the inspiration behind Moulin Rouge and the musical Rent, Puccini’s La Bohe?me continues to delight audiences. With its lush sets and costumes, soaring music and a world-class cast, this glittering production, set in the bohemian streets of 1930s Berlin is the perfect showcase for this heartbreaking love story. Returning to the Melbourne stage in November, this lavish production brings Puccini’s classic to life in a sumptuous and decadent setting that is a perfect choice for opera first-timers.
Arts Centre Melbourne, State Theatre
7 November – 24 November 2018 | Tickets from $67
DIE MEISTERSINGER VON NU?RNBERG (Australian Premiere)
Opera Australia’s co-production with the Royal Opera House of Wagner’s comedic masterpiece Die Meistersinger Von Nu?rnberg will have its Australian premiere in Melbourne this November. Direct from Covent Garden, Director Kasper Holten’s all-encompassing six hour production is as epic as the opera demands. Renowned Finnish Maestro Pietari Inkinen, conductor of Melbourne’s Ring Cycle in 2013 and 2016, will lead Orchestra Victoria and the magnificent cast of world class singers in this grand scale opera. Die Meistersinger Von Nu?rnberg is a glowing testament to the wonder of human artistry, where there are strict rules in art and in love.
Arts Centre Melbourne, State Theatre
13 November – 22 November 2018 | Tickets from $90
MAZDA OPERA IN THE BOWL – FREE
Pack a picnic and make the most of a glorious evening at Mazda Opera In The Bowl, one of Melbourne’s favourite outdoor experiences. It’s your night to enjoy the powerful and impassioned voices belonging to Armenian-Australian soprano Natalie Aroyan, acclaimed mezzo-soprano Sian Pendry, Australian favourite tenor Virgilio Marino, and commanding baritone Luke Gabbedy, led by conductor Tahu Matheson. Opera Australia’s free, family-friendly event is the perfect way to experience opera’s most magical and memorable moments under the stars with the magnificent backing of Orchestra Victoria.
Sidney Myer Music Bowl | Gates open from 4pm 8pm, Saturday 24 November 2018 | Free Event