Opera Australia, in partnership with Sydney Festival, is putting on Laurent Pelly’s mesmerising opera rendition of Massenet’s Cinderella (Cendrillon), set to enchant spectators on New Year’s Eve at the iconic Sydney Opera House, a standout event in the Company’s forthcoming 2025 summer season.
This enchanting and widely acclaimed adaptation of the beloved fairy tale, Cinderella, will unveil its magic in Australia following triumphant runs at The Metropolitan Opera of New York and the Royal Opera House Covent Garden.
A momentous occasion for OA, as this marks the debut of this opera within its repertoire, with the esteemed Artistic Director Jo Davies kicking off her inaugural summer season with the spellbinding Cinderella, featuring a stellar trio of Australia’s finest vocal talents.
Leading the cast is Emily Edmonds, making her mark after her time with the Jette Parker Young Artists Program at the Royal Opera House, portraying the enchanting Cinderella. Margaret Plummer, returning from Vienna, steps into the role of Prince Charming, while the acclaimed Australian soprano, Emma Matthews, graces the stage as the Fairy Godmother.
Reflecting on the exceptional casting choices, Ms. Davies expressed her delight, stating, “I’m truly thrilled to have secured such immensely talented Australian singers to headline this magnificent production for its premiere in Australia in 2025. Bringing Margaret back to Australia and reuniting with Emily and Emma at OA is a casting coup for me, and I eagerly anticipate the commencement of rehearsals later this year. This promises to be a delightful spectacle for all audiences and a standout feature of my inaugural summer season at the Sydney Opera House.”
Massenet’s delightful operatic interpretation of the timeless fairy tale unfolds in English, infused with wit and a touch of the whimsical. The stage design transports viewers into a fairy tale realm inspired by the original illustrated edition of the storybook, complete with a captivating fold-out balcony and intricately designed carriages. The costumes are a visual feast, with extravagant and larger-than-life creations, complemented by enchanting orchestrations and sublime vocals.
This production promises to captivate audiences of all ages, catering to both opera newcomers and seasoned aficionados alike, offering a delightful experience that the whole family can revel in – a true gem in the world of opera.
Info and tickets at the Opera Australia website