Get ready for an electrifying, larger-than-life experience as Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour brings back the iconic musical, West Side Story, to its spectacular stage in 2024. This highly anticipated production will showcase the greatest score ever written and promises to be a musical masterpiece like no other.
Opera Australia (OA) has recently announced the two talented Australian performers who will take on the lead roles of Tony and Maria in this limited 4-week season. Making her professional theatrical debut as Maria is the award-winning First Nations soprano, Nina Korbe. Joining her as Tony is the Canberra-born tenor, Billy Bourchier, fresh from his acclaimed performances in OA’s Miss Saigon.
Jo Davies, Opera Australia’s Artistic Director, expressed her excitement about the casting, stating, “We are so excited to have these two fabulous Australian talents lead this production, audiences are going to be thrilled by their talent and energy on stage.” The full cast, which will be announced soon, promises to be a diverse range of extraordinary talents from both the opera and musical theatre worlds.
The production of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour premiered in 2019 to outstanding acclaim and remains the most successful of all Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour productions. This year, audiences will once again be treated to nightly fireworks, a live orchestra, and a breathtaking performance on Australia’s largest outdoor stage, boasting sweeping city and harbor views. Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has truly become a quintessential cultural experience in Sydney.
Nina Korbe, a proud Koa, Kuku Yalanji, and Wakka Wakka woman, is deeply committed to promoting the representation of First Nations artists in the creative industries. Her exceptional talent has been recognized with numerous opportunities, including joining the Queensland Youth Orchestra as their Artist in Residence and becoming a Young Artist at Opera Queensland. She has also performed alongside esteemed orchestras such as the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
Billy Bourchier, on the other hand, started his journey in theatre in Canberra, honing his skills in various productions before studying at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Since then, his career has blossomed, with notable roles in productions like Candide, The Pirates of Penzance, Les Misérables (both in Australia and internationally), The Last Five Years, and The Book of Mormon. Billy’s talent has led him to collaborate with renowned artists such as Jemma Rix, John Foreman, and The Queensland Symphony Orchestra.
This 2024 production of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour is supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW and the International Foundation for Arts and Culture. Dr. Haruhisa Handa, OA’s Patron in Chief, and HSBC are also key supporters of this prestigious event.
Mark your calendars for the limited season of West Side Story on Sydney Harbour, running from March 22 to April 21, 2024, at the breathtaking Fleet Steps in Mrs Macquaries Point, Sydney. Join us for an unforgettable night of music, drama, and unparalleled talent as Australian stars take the stage and bring this beloved musical to life.
Sources:
- Sydney Opera House: Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour: West Side Story
- Opera Australia: Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – West Side Story
- Travel and Tour World: Australian Stars Shine in West Side Story on Sydney Harbour
- Classic Tic: West Side Story – Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour
- Mirage News: Australian Talent Lights Up Sydney in West Side Story
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