Tag: opera australia

Guys & Dolls comes to stage on Sydney Harbour

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Posted: 16/08/2024

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… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

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Opera Australia doing Cinderella this summer

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Posted: 16/07/2024

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… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, OPERA

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Opera Australia bring ‘Breaking the waves’ to Melbourne

Opera Australia Breaking the waves

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Posted: 04/07/2024

For the first time in Melbourne, Missy Mazzoli and Royce Vavrek’s “Breaking the Waves” will startle audiences, as it has across the world, including acclaimed seasons at Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), Edinburgh Festival, and Adelaide Festival. Opera Australia will present a Melbourne exclusive, one-night-only semi-staged performance of this contemporary opera on 26 July at Hamer Hall, helmed by Melbourne Theatre Company’s Artistic Director Anne-Louise Sarks and conducted by the award-winning Jessica Cottis. This will be Sarks’ first foray into opera, which she says offers an exciting opportunity to expand her creative output in a new direction. “Opera is an entirely different type of theatre; the sheer drama of the music adds a greater depth and dimension to the storytelling and allows us immediate access to the inner life of these characters. I am looking forward to working with some of Australia’s finest singers and musicians to bring this story to life. Breaking the Waves brings together some brilliant female creatives. Composer Missy Mazzoli, conductor Jessica Cottis, and designer Marg Horwell are world leaders in their fields, and it is so special to collaborate with them on this project,” said Ms. Sarks. Dubbed by Time Out as “Brooklyn’s post-millennial Mozart,” Mazzoli is one of the most exciting composers working anywhere in the world, and her adaptation of von Trier’s film has been acclaimed as one of the 21st century’s best operas. Opera Australia filled Hamer Hall last year with its critically successful “Satyagraha,” and “Breaking the Waves” presents the perfect opportunity for a musically adventurous… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, OPERA

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Opera Australia presents a thrilling tribute to Puccini’s legacy

Puccini Tosca Opera Australia

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Updated: 08/06/2024

Embark on a musical odyssey as Opera Australia honours the 100th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini’s legacy with a spectacular production of Tosca at the iconic Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House. From the 25th of June to the 16th of August 2024, immerse yourself in the timeless allure of this Italian masterpiece reimagined for modern audiences. Prepare to be captivated by the enthralling tale of Tosca, a riveting opera that weaves a tapestry of love, passion, jealousy, and betrayal over a heart-pounding 24-hour timeline. Directed by the acclaimed Edward Dick, this five-star production promises an electrifying experience, blending classical elegance with contemporary flair to create a visual and auditory feast for the senses. Step into a world where Renaissance grandeur meets avant-garde sophistication, as set designer Tom Scutt transforms the stage into a mesmerising spectacle beneath a suspended gilded dome adorned with a stunning Renaissance fresco. The performers, dressed in glamorous modern attire by BAFTA-winning costume designer Fotini Dimou, are illuminated by Lee Curran’s stadium-style lighting, creating a mesmerising visual symphony. The talented cast includes the Northern Irish soprano Giselle Allen making her OA debut in the titular role, alongside the brilliant Karah Son, captivating audiences with her rendition of Tosca’s iconic aria ‘Vissi d’arte’. Korean tenor Young Woo Kim and Armenian dramatic baritone Gevorg Hakobyan bring the characters of Cavaradossi and Scarpia to life, with award-winning local baritone Warwick Fyfe adding his exceptional talent to the mix. Guiding the orchestra with finesse and passion, acclaimed maestro Johannes Fritzsch and OA’s Head of Music Tahu… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

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Opera Australia doing 500 tickets for $35

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Posted: 10/05/2024

Opera Australia is rolling out the red carpet for younger audiences with its innovative Opera for Under 35s program! A fresh initiative that aims to breathe new life into the traditional art form of opera. In a bold move to attract a younger demographic, OA is offering an enticing deal of 500 tickets priced at just $35 each. This special offer marks the launch of a program dedicated to making opera more accessible and appealing to the under-35 crowd, starting with the Australian premiere of Edward Dick’s acclaimed production of Tosca. Scheduled to mesmerise audiences firstly in Melbourne at the Margaret Court Arena on May 24, followed by a season at the iconic Sydney Opera House starting June 25, Tosca is set to be a landmark event. This initiative is not merely about offering discounted tickets; it’s a comprehensive program designed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for opera among young Australians. Registrants of the program can look forward to a 15% discount on tickets to most OA performances year-round, alongside exclusive further discounts for select shows, with some tickets available at the low price of $35. Additionally, members will receive invitations to special behind-the-scenes events including meet-and-greets with artists, all at no additional cost. Jo Davies, OA’s new Artistic Director, expresses her excitement about the program, highlighting it as a strategic move to lower financial barriers and make opera accessible to all, especially during tough economic times. This approach not only preserves but also propels the art form forward by ensuring it remains relevant and… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, MUSIC, OPERA, SYDNEY

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Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

Mathieu Arama musician violin

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Posted: 24/04/2024

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

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How to appear in Opera Australia’s “West Side Story”

Opera Australia West Side Story HOSH dance

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Updated: 23/03/2024

Ever dreamed of lighting up the stage in one of the most iconic musicals of all time? Well, pack your dancing shoes and prepare for an exhilarating experience because Opera Australia is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that’s bound to get your heart racing. For the first time in musical theatre history down under, fans of the legendary “West Side Story” can purchase a unique walk-on role, taking their place in the spotlight on the breathtaking Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage. Imagine the applause, the lights, the energy – and you, right there in the heart of it all! This isn’t just any role. Each night, during the up-coming season, one lucky individual will join the talented cast on-stage for the electrifying ‘Dance at the Gym’ scene. It’s a chance to not just watch the drama unfold but to be an integral part of it, to move to the rhythms of Leonard Bernstein’s timeless score amidst the backdrop of Sydney’s shimmering skyline. But wait, there’s more to this star treatment than just the performance. The walk-on role comes with perks that would make even the most seasoned actors envious. From professional hair and makeup, a custom costume fitting, to a rehearsal with the Assistant Director to perfect your moments in the spotlight. Before the show, you’ll meet and greet the ensemble, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening. And because such nights are best shared, the experience includes four Premium Reserve tickets, allowing you to bring your own cheering squad. Your evening of glamour doesn’t… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

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Why anticipate West Side Story, Sydney Harbour

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Posted: 04/03/2024

Rehearsals have commenced for the highly-anticipated return of the sensational musical, West Side Story, at Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. Set to reopen on Friday 22 March, this production promises to deliver an electrifying and larger-than-life experience, making it the most sought-after presentation in the history of the venue. Talented performers hailing from various regions across Australia, including Mount Gambier, Wagga Wagga, Alice Springs, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Melbourne, and Adelaide, alongside an international cast member from the US, have converged upon Sydney with great enthusiasm. They are all poised to take on the challenge of the four-week open-air season on the iconic harbour stage. The exceptional cast faces an intense rehearsal schedule as they prepare to master the intricate dance sequences and iconic music inherent in this legendary Broadway musical. Under the direction of Associate Director Eric Sean Fogel, Revival Choreographer Kiira Schmidt Carper, and Musical Director Guy Simpson, the cast is gearing up to bring West Side Story to life in a truly remarkable manner. Featuring one of the most renowned ensembles in musical theatre, the production calls for highly skilled dancers to portray the rival street gangs, the Sharks and the Jets, and perform the celebrated and complex choreography with finesse. At the forefront of the cast are First Nations soprano Nina Korbe as Maria and Canberran Billy Bourchier as Tony. They are joined by a stellar lineup including Newcastle-born Patrick Whitbread, Gold Coast’s Kimberley Hodgson, and Broadway performer Manuel Stark Santos, who is set to make his Australian debut in the… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, OPERA, SYDNEY

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See West Side Story in Sydney

Opera Australia West Side Story HOSH fireworks

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Posted: 12/02/2024

Get ready for an electrifying and larger-than-life experience as the smash-hit musical, West Side Story, returns to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage for a strictly limited 4-week season from March 22. This annual highlight of Sydney’s cultural calendar promises an unforgettable night out, combining breathtaking performances with stunning views and entertainment. An Unforgettable Experience Audiences will be treated to the greatest score ever written for musical theatre, dynamic dance numbers, and captivating voices that resonate through the open air. The brilliant cast of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour is set to deliver an unforgettable performance, making this event one of Sydney’s most spectacular nights out. Each performance will culminate with a nightly fireworks display, adding a touch of magic to an already extraordinary experience. Moreover, the venue offers a variety of pop-up bars and eateries across the site, ranging from fine dining to casual bites, ensuring that there’s something for every taste. Indulgence and Luxury For those seeking a touch of luxury, the stunning HSBC Platinum Club will offer a fine-dining dinner menu before each performance, with drinks available before the show and during the interval. Nestled among the treetops, this exclusive setting provides truly spectacular views overlooking Sydney Harbour, promising an unmissable and indulgent experience. Additionally, ticketholders will have access to the Qantas Garden Bar, Feel New Sydney Terrace, Southern Terrace, and Northern Cantina, each offering a more casual atmosphere with a mix of dinner, drinks, and snacks. This allows audiences to tailor their evening to perfection, creating their own ideal… Read More

Category: CITIES, ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, OPERA, SYDNEY

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