Opera Australia has unveiled the newest jewel in its casting crown with the announcement that Angelina Thomson will step into the iconic role of Miss Adelaide in the brand-new production of Guys & Dolls.
Set to dazzle audiences under the stars, the award-winning Broadway classic will open at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour on 21 March, marking an electrifying addition to Sydney’s cultural calendar.
A Role Demanding Comedy, Charisma, and Star Power
After a rigorous nationwide search, Director Shaun Rennie is brimming with excitement over Thompson’s selection. Speaking about the decision, Rennie shared, “Miss Adelaide requires a fantastic voice to sing iconic songs like ‘Adelaide’s Lament’ and ‘Take Back Your Mink’. She also needs to dance, be incredibly charismatic, and have enormous heart. Audiences need to fall in love with Adelaide, and I know Angelina has all the qualities we’ve been looking for.”
Rennie also praised the calibre of talent assembled for the show, noting, “Angelina will be joining a fantastically talented cast of Australian performers as well as a superb ensemble that showcases some of the best singers and dancers in the country.”
From Ensemble to Leading Lady
Fans may already recognise Thomson from her television role as Kirby on Home & Away. However, her return to Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour holds special significance. She previously graced the event in 2019 as part of the ensemble cast of West Side Story. Now, she takes centre stage in a leading role—a transformational milestone in her career.
“Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is without a doubt one of my favourite events of the year. To return to the stage in a leading role at this iconic Sydney venue is a pinch-me moment!” Thomson said.
A Cast Packed With Talent
Thomson will share the stage with an all-star cast, including Cody Simpson, Annie Aitken, Bobby Fox, and Jason Arrow, making Guys & Dolls a marquee event for Opera Australia. This production also carries the unique honour of being the first musical comedy staged at the harbourside venue, as well as the first major Australian production of the show in a decade.
A Night to Remember
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney Harbour, Guys & Dolls promises an unforgettable night of classic Broadway magic. Featuring crowd-favourite numbers like ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and ‘Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat’, the production will bring Frank Loesser’s iconic score to life with a vibrant, larger-than-life set designed by Brian Thomson and dazzling costumes by Jennifer Irwin.
Often regarded as one of the greatest musicals of all time, Guys & Dolls has earned its timeless reputation since its Broadway debut in 1950, winning five Tony Awards, inspiring a Hollywood adaptation starring Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando, and enjoying numerous revivals, including a recent smash-hit on London’s West End.
Setting the Stage for Excellence
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour continues to push the boundaries of theatrical grandeur, blending world-class talent with what is arguably Sydney’s most iconic outdoor stage. Supported by the NSW Government, via Destination NSW, the event brings tourism and culture together in perfect harmony. Additionally, its success is bolstered by the generous sponsorship of the International Foundation for Arts and Culture, Dr Haruhisa Handa OA’s patronage, and HSBC as Opera Australia’s Principal Partner.
With its spectacular setting, exceptional cast, and legendary source material, Guys & Dolls is set to cement its place as one of the harbourside opera event’s most memorable productions yet. Audiences can expect a night of laughter, toe-tapping tunes, and breathtaking theatrical moments as Nathan Detroit, Miss Adelaide, and the unforgettable characters of New York’s underbelly come to life.
For Opera Australia, and for Sydney, this marks the beginning of the next unforgettable cultural chapter—and Angelina Thomson’s Miss Adelaide is ready to steal the show.