For the first time ever, Opera Australia is bringing its highly anticipated Melbourne opera season to the iconic Regent Theatre, one of the city’s most beautiful theatres.
From October to December, audiences will be treated to a dazzling program of mainstage operas, including The Barber of Seville, Carmen, and Orpheus & Eurydice. This debut season promises to captivate opera lovers and newcomers alike with its mix of comedy, drama, and groundbreaking artistry.
Opera with a new flavour
This season marks a shift in Opera Australia’s programming style, with productions running in ‘stagione’ format. Instead of alternating performances nightly, each opera will be performed on consecutive dates before the next production begins. This approach not only allows for a more immersive experience but also showcases a double-cast lineup of local and international talent, offering Melbourne audiences a rich variety of performances.
Barber of Seville
The season opens with Elijah Moshinsky’s sparkling production of The Barber of Seville. Packed with Rossini’s iconic tunes and laugh-out-loud moments, this opera is a whirlwind of mischief and comic brilliance. The giant dollhouse set adds a playful charm, making it a delight for audiences of all ages.
An all-Australian cast will bring this classic to life, with baritones Samuel Dundas and Simon Meadows sharing the role of the mischievous Figaro, while mezzo-sopranos Helen Sherman and Emily Edmonds alternate as Rosina. Tenors John Longmuir and Shanul Sharma will both take on the role of Count Almaviva.
- Dates: 31 October – 5 November
- Tickets: From $79
Opera up late
For one night only, Opera Up Late will turn the Regent Theatre into a playground of operatic irreverence. Hosted by international comedy and cabaret star Reuben Kaye, this electrifying show blends opera, comedy, and cabaret in a way you’ve never seen before.
Joined by Opera Australia stars Emma Matthews, Angela Hogan, Tomas Dalton, and Adam Player, Kaye will lead a night of reimagined opera hits, musical theatre classics, and big laughs. Directed by Shaun Rennie, this Melbourne premiere is perfect for opera newbies and aficionados alike.
- Date: 2 November
- Tickets: From $79
Carmen’s still fiery
Anne-Louise Sarks, one of Australia’s leading theatre directors, brings her daring new production of Carmen to Melbourne. This bold adaptation of Bizet’s masterpiece reimagines the story of opera’s most iconic femme fatale, posing urgent questions about destiny, autonomy, and tragedy.
Making her Australian debut, Italian conductor Clelia Cafiero will lead a smouldering cast, including Melbourne-born soprano Danielle de Niese and OA mezzo Sian Sharp sharing the role of Carmen. Mexican tenor Abraham Bretòn and OA favourite Diego Torre will alternate as Don José, adding fiery vibrancy to this 21st-century reimagining.
- Dates: 15 – 25 November
- Tickets: From $79
Classical Greek tales at their best
The season concludes with the Melbourne premiere of Orpheus & Eurydice, a genre-defying production that fuses opera with breathtaking circus acrobatics. Directed and choreographed by Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz, this visually stunning reimagining of Gluck’s opera explores the profound themes of love and loss.
British countertenor Iestyn Davies makes his Opera Australia debut as Orfeo, alongside Australian soprano Samantha Clarke as Eurydice and Amore. Following a five-star season at the Edinburgh International Festival, this collaboration with contemporary circus company Circa promises to leave audiences in awe.
- Dates: 2 – 5 December
- Tickets: From $79
Opera Australia’s debut season at the Regent Theatre is a celebration of artistry, innovation, and storytelling. With a mix of classic and contemporary productions, this season offers something for everyone—from laugh-out-loud comedy to heart-wrenching drama and awe-inspiring spectacle.
Secure your tickets now and experience the magic of opera like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned opera lover or a curious first-timer, this is a season you won’t want to miss.