Opera Australia 2012 Sydney Season Brochure

Metropolitan Opera production photo: Š Cory Weaver/Metropolitan Opera 2009

OPERA OPERA AUSTRALIA 2012 SYDNEY

www.opera-australia.org.au

WELCOME TO OPERA AUSTRALIA’S 2012 YEAR-LONG FESTIVAL OF OPERA Within this brochure you will find some wonderful productions which we hope will allow you, our audience, to see old friends from a different perspective and to discover new acquaintances which may signal the beginning of an important long-term relationship.

From Julie Taymor’s inspired production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute, to a spectacular production of La Traviata on Sydney Harbour. From the ravishing music of Korngold’s Die tote Stadt to a fabulous production of South Pacific, we hope that this year you make discoveries that you will treasure and carry with you forever.

Within this program narrative we are endeavouring to articulate what a national opera company might be in the 21st century.

An opera company that respects and honours the traditions of the past but also has a clear voice and vision for the future.

We look forward to your company on this journey.

Lyndon Terracini Artistic Director

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WELCOME TO OPERA AUSTRALIA’S 2012 YEAR-LONG FESTIVAL OF OPERA Within this brochure you will find some wonderful productions which we hope will allow you, our audience, to see old friends from a different perspective and to discover new acquaintances which may signal the beginning of an important long-term relationship.

From Julie Taymor’s inspired production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute, to a spectacular production of La Traviata on Sydney Harbour. From the ravishing music of Korngold’s Die tote Stadt to a fabulous production of South Pacific, we hope that this year you make discoveries that you will treasure and carry with you forever.

Within this program narrative we are endeavouring to articulate what a national opera company might be in the 21st century.

An opera company that respects and honours the traditions of the past but also has a clear voice and vision for the future.

We look forward to your company on this journey.

Lyndon Terracini Artistic Director

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3

WELCOME TO OUR WORLD It is a place where animals dance, children fly and love conquers all. Where ideas matter, and music saves the day.

A world of glamour and passion, spectacle and fantasy, where everything is big, bold and beautiful.

BIG, because with opera you have to think on a grand scale – big ideas, intense emotions, and larger-than-life characters.

BOLD, because here in Australia, we have a unique opportunity.

Australia is very different to the rest of the world and that gives us licence to create an opera company that is different to any other. We can ask questions, say ‘what if?’ And ‘why not?’

What if we do a classic musical with opera singers?

Why not experiment with different sound sources?

BEAUTIFUL, because the music is so wonderful, the stories are so moving, and in everything we do, we are responding to this beauty.

Welcome to our world of opera.

BOOK EARLY for your chance to Zoom-Zoom away Get your subscription or renewal to us by 5pm Friday 9 September 2011 and you could be driving away in a brand new Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV. 4

This latest addition to the Mazda3 range will be equipped with the company’s all-new SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre direct injection petrol engine mated to the all-new SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination of new SKYACTIV technologies will deliver more performance and class-leading levels of fuel efficiency.

The Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV, when launched in October 2011, will become Australia’s most fuel efficient, petrol-powered automatic small car.

In addition to making the Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV even more fun to drive, it will be the first Mazda model in Australia to feature i-stop, the company’s award-winning idling stop system.

Inside, the Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV will impress with its long list of standard features that includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and climate control air conditioning. The Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV in Luxury specification will also include leather seats and Bose sound system.

For full competition terms and conditions visit www.opera-australia.org.au

The prize pack includes all on-road charges, 12 months registration and stamp duty.

Authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS-11-06209 Vic Permit No. VIC 11/1411 ACT Permit No. TP 11/02769

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WELCOME TO OUR WORLD It is a place where animals dance, children fly and love conquers all. Where ideas matter, and music saves the day.

A world of glamour and passion, spectacle and fantasy, where everything is big, bold and beautiful.

BIG, because with opera you have to think on a grand scale – big ideas, intense emotions, and larger-than-life characters.

BOLD, because here in Australia, we have a unique opportunity.

Australia is very different to the rest of the world and that gives us licence to create an opera company that is different to any other. We can ask questions, say ‘what if?’ And ‘why not?’

What if we do a classic musical with opera singers?

Why not experiment with different sound sources?

BEAUTIFUL, because the music is so wonderful, the stories are so moving, and in everything we do, we are responding to this beauty.

Welcome to our world of opera.

BOOK EARLY for your chance to Zoom-Zoom away Get your subscription or renewal to us by 5pm Friday 9 September 2011 and you could be driving away in a brand new Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV. 4

This latest addition to the Mazda3 range will be equipped with the company’s all-new SKYACTIV-G 2.0 litre direct injection petrol engine mated to the all-new SKYACTIV-Drive 6-speed automatic transmission. This combination of new SKYACTIV technologies will deliver more performance and class-leading levels of fuel efficiency.

The Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV, when launched in October 2011, will become Australia’s most fuel efficient, petrol-powered automatic small car.

In addition to making the Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV even more fun to drive, it will be the first Mazda model in Australia to feature i-stop, the company’s award-winning idling stop system.

Inside, the Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV will impress with its long list of standard features that includes satellite navigation, Bluetooth connectivity and climate control air conditioning. The Mazda3 SP20 SKYACTIV in Luxury specification will also include leather seats and Bose sound system.

For full competition terms and conditions visit www.opera-australia.org.au

The prize pack includes all on-road charges, 12 months registration and stamp duty.

Authorised under NSW Permit No. LTPS-11-06209 Vic Permit No. VIC 11/1411 ACT Permit No. TP 11/02769

5

Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

The Magic Flute Dazzling costumes, puppetry, pacy English dialogue and theatrical ingenuity meet the radiant melodies of a musical genius. This is sure to be a perfect introduction to opera.

Welcome to a world where animals dance and children fly, where princes battle dragons and hope battles despair.

To a world where ideas matter, and music saves the day. Welcome to a magical experience for the whole family in an enchanting new production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute.

Evenings at 7:30pm: January 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 27, 31. February 2, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 21, 23, 27. March 1, 3, 13, 21, 23.

Matinees at 1pm: February 4, 25.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately one hour and forty minutes - no interval.

Conductor Jonathan Darlington (until 27 Jan) Andrew Greene Director Julie Taymor Set Designer George Tsypin Costume Designer Julie Taymor

NEW PRODUCTION

Puppetry Designers Julie Taymor & Michael Curry Lighting Designer Donald Holder

When New York’s Metropolitan Opera was commissioning a new The Magic Flute, it looked to Julie Taymor, director of Disney’s The Lion King, for inspiration.

She took Mozart’s fairy tale and turned it into a show that, in the spirit of the original, speaks to the child in all of us.

Pamina Nicole Car (until 27 Jan, from 17 Feb) Hyeseoung Kwon (31 Jan - 15 Feb) Tamino Andrew Brunsdon (until 21 Feb) John Longmuir

Papageno Andrew Jones (until 21 Feb) Luke Gabbedy Queen of the Night Emma Pearson Suzanne Shakespeare Angela Brun Sarastro David Parkin

Family Friendly

A special child subscription price of $55 per ticket is available for all matinee performances to all operas, and all Monday to Friday performances of The Magic Flute.

A feisty young cast brings this landmark production to Sydney. Andrew Brunsdon and John Longmuir perform Tamino, with Andrew Jones and Luke Gabbedy as Papageno, and Nicole Car and Hyeseoung Kwon as Pamina. The towering role of Queen of the Night will be shared by Emma Pearson, Suzanne Shakespeare and Angela Brun, and David Parkin is Sarastro.

Tamino is a noble prince on a quest.

He discovers strange lands, inhabited by wondrous creatures – scary women, wise children and even a bird man – but that is not what he is looking for.

Will Tamino finally discover the truth?

And will he find true love?

First Lady Jane Parkin Second Lady Sian Pendry (until 27 Jan) Victoria Lambourn Third Lady Tania Ferris Monostatos Kanen Breen Speaker Stephen Bennett

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus This production was reproduced by Opera Australia from the original production of THE MAGIC FLUTE by the Metropolitan Opera, New York.

Translation by J.D. McClatchy Performed by arrangement with The Metropolitan Opera, publisher and sole copyright holder

Metropolitan Opera production photo: © Cory Weaver/Metropolitan Opera 2009

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Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

The Magic Flute Dazzling costumes, puppetry, pacy English dialogue and theatrical ingenuity meet the radiant melodies of a musical genius. This is sure to be a perfect introduction to opera.

Welcome to a world where animals dance and children fly, where princes battle dragons and hope battles despair.

To a world where ideas matter, and music saves the day. Welcome to a magical experience for the whole family in an enchanting new production of Mozart’s The Magic Flute.

Evenings at 7:30pm: January 6, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 21, 23, 25, 27, 31. February 2, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 21, 23, 27. March 1, 3, 13, 21, 23.

Matinees at 1pm: February 4, 25.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately one hour and forty minutes - no interval.

Conductor Jonathan Darlington (until 27 Jan) Andrew Greene Director Julie Taymor Set Designer George Tsypin Costume Designer Julie Taymor

NEW PRODUCTION

Puppetry Designers Julie Taymor & Michael Curry Lighting Designer Donald Holder

When New York’s Metropolitan Opera was commissioning a new The Magic Flute, it looked to Julie Taymor, director of Disney’s The Lion King, for inspiration.

She took Mozart’s fairy tale and turned it into a show that, in the spirit of the original, speaks to the child in all of us.

Pamina Nicole Car (until 27 Jan, from 17 Feb) Hyeseoung Kwon (31 Jan - 15 Feb) Tamino Andrew Brunsdon (until 21 Feb) John Longmuir

Papageno Andrew Jones (until 21 Feb) Luke Gabbedy Queen of the Night Emma Pearson Suzanne Shakespeare Angela Brun Sarastro David Parkin

Family Friendly

A special child subscription price of $55 per ticket is available for all matinee performances to all operas, and all Monday to Friday performances of The Magic Flute.

A feisty young cast brings this landmark production to Sydney. Andrew Brunsdon and John Longmuir perform Tamino, with Andrew Jones and Luke Gabbedy as Papageno, and Nicole Car and Hyeseoung Kwon as Pamina. The towering role of Queen of the Night will be shared by Emma Pearson, Suzanne Shakespeare and Angela Brun, and David Parkin is Sarastro.

Tamino is a noble prince on a quest.

He discovers strange lands, inhabited by wondrous creatures – scary women, wise children and even a bird man – but that is not what he is looking for.

Will Tamino finally discover the truth?

And will he find true love?

First Lady Jane Parkin Second Lady Sian Pendry (until 27 Jan) Victoria Lambourn Third Lady Tania Ferris Monostatos Kanen Breen Speaker Stephen Bennett

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus This production was reproduced by Opera Australia from the original production of THE MAGIC FLUTE by the Metropolitan Opera, New York.

Translation by J.D. McClatchy Performed by arrangement with The Metropolitan Opera, publisher and sole copyright holder

Metropolitan Opera production photo: © Cory Weaver/Metropolitan Opera 2009

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Giacomo PUCCINI

Turandot The mythical Princess Turandot rules her people with an iron fist and a heart of ice. Many have tried to melt her heart and win her hand, but all have failed. Can Prince Calaf be the one who succeeds?

And what price will he have to pay?

Puccini’s late, great masterpiece is back, in a production which has become a modern classic in the Opera Australia repertoire.

Director Graeme Murphy’s bold choreography and designer Kristian Fredrikson’s larger-than-life sets and costumes balance Puccini’s gorgeous swathes of orchestral and choral colour to produce a spectacular night in the theatre. And then there are those unforgettable arias - Turandot’s spine-tingling ‘In questa reggia’, Liù’s heart-rending ‘Signore, ascolta!’ and the great anthem, ‘Nessun dorma!’ romantic opera at its intoxicating best.

Conductor Arvo Volmer Simon Hewett (4 Feb) Director Graeme Murphy Associate Director Kim Walker Set & Costume Designer Kristian Fredrikson

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Choreographer Graeme Murphy Lighting Designer John Drummond Montgomery

It is with great pleasure that we welcome rising star Susan Foster to make her Australian debut as the impossible princess. Liù, the faithful slave girl at the emotional heart of the story, is played by young Italian soprano Daria Masiero. And as Calaf, the valiant challenger torn by love and loyalty, we present award-winning Australian tenor Rosario La Spina. Anke Höppner, Hyeseoung Kwon and Carlo Barricelli step into these roles later in the season.

The cast is completed by Andrew Moran, Graeme Macfarlane and David Corcoran as the three inscrutables, Ping, Pang and Pong, Jud Arthur as the ill-fated Timur, with Arvo Volmer conducting.

Turandot Susan Foster (until 22 Feb) Anke Höppner Calaf Rosario La Spina (until 22 Feb) Carlo Barricelli

Liù Daria Masiero (until 22 Feb) Hyeseoung Kwon Timur Jud Arthur Ping Andrew Moran Pong David Corcoran

Evenings at 7:30pm: January 17, 24, 30.

February 4, 8, 14, 22, 25, 29.

March 7, 12, 16, 19.

Matinees at 1pm: January 21.

February 11, 18. March 3, 10.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and forty minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Pang Graeme Macfarlane Mandarin Warwick Fyfe Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus Opera Australia Children’s Chorus Opera Australia Dancers

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Giacomo PUCCINI

Turandot The mythical Princess Turandot rules her people with an iron fist and a heart of ice. Many have tried to melt her heart and win her hand, but all have failed. Can Prince Calaf be the one who succeeds?

And what price will he have to pay?

Puccini’s late, great masterpiece is back, in a production which has become a modern classic in the Opera Australia repertoire.

Director Graeme Murphy’s bold choreography and designer Kristian Fredrikson’s larger-than-life sets and costumes balance Puccini’s gorgeous swathes of orchestral and choral colour to produce a spectacular night in the theatre. And then there are those unforgettable arias - Turandot’s spine-tingling ‘In questa reggia’, Liù’s heart-rending ‘Signore, ascolta!’ and the great anthem, ‘Nessun dorma!’ romantic opera at its intoxicating best.

Conductor Arvo Volmer Simon Hewett (4 Feb) Director Graeme Murphy Associate Director Kim Walker Set & Costume Designer Kristian Fredrikson

8

Choreographer Graeme Murphy Lighting Designer John Drummond Montgomery

It is with great pleasure that we welcome rising star Susan Foster to make her Australian debut as the impossible princess. Liù, the faithful slave girl at the emotional heart of the story, is played by young Italian soprano Daria Masiero. And as Calaf, the valiant challenger torn by love and loyalty, we present award-winning Australian tenor Rosario La Spina. Anke Höppner, Hyeseoung Kwon and Carlo Barricelli step into these roles later in the season.

The cast is completed by Andrew Moran, Graeme Macfarlane and David Corcoran as the three inscrutables, Ping, Pang and Pong, Jud Arthur as the ill-fated Timur, with Arvo Volmer conducting.

Turandot Susan Foster (until 22 Feb) Anke Höppner Calaf Rosario La Spina (until 22 Feb) Carlo Barricelli

Liù Daria Masiero (until 22 Feb) Hyeseoung Kwon Timur Jud Arthur Ping Andrew Moran Pong David Corcoran

Evenings at 7:30pm: January 17, 24, 30.

February 4, 8, 14, 22, 25, 29.

March 7, 12, 16, 19.

Matinees at 1pm: January 21.

February 11, 18. March 3, 10.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and forty minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Pang Graeme Macfarlane Mandarin Warwick Fyfe Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus Opera Australia Children’s Chorus Opera Australia Dancers

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Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

The Marriage of Figaro

It’s a special day in the Almaviva household. Susanna, the housemaid, and Figaro, the security guard, are getting married! And the boss has, with great magnanimity, provided them with brand new married quarters, ideally positioned right between his and his wife’s bedrooms.

Wait a minute… Ideally positioned for whom? Could Almaviva have his eye on the bride?

It may be a 200-year-old masterpiece, but The Marriage of Figaro is as insightful as the day it was written, revealing the games people play and the things they say as they dress up, dress down, and take their role in society.

l.

In 2012, we celebrate Figaro’s wedding day with a new production from one of the most exciting theatrical minds in Australia. Benedict Andrews is a true classicist, with a string of awardwinning productions of Shakespeare to his name. Now he turns to opera. What will he make of the man who can weave melodies, emotions, and notes together into a perfect web of humanity?

Conductor Simon Hewett (until Mar 6) Anthony Legge Director Benedict Andrews Set Designer Ralph Myers Costume Designer Alice Babidge

Lighting Designer Nick Schlieper Count Almaviva Michael Lewis Countess Elvira Fatykhova Susanna Taryn Fiebig

How will he use Jeremy Sams’s crisp English translation and Ralph Myers’s ingenious set? And what will he do with a cast which is simply outstanding, dramatically and vocally?

Joshua Bloom is Figaro, Taryn Fiebig is Susanna and Michael Lewis is a Count to be reckoned with, while spectacular Russian soprano Elvira Fatykhova plays the Countess for the first time in Sydney. Later in the season, Shane Lowrencev steps into the role of Figaro, and Simon Hewett hands over the baton to Opera Australia’s Assistant Music Director Anthony Legge.

Evenings at 7:30pm: February 6, 10, 16, 18, 24, 28.

March 2, 6, 9, 14, 24.

Matinee at 1pm: March 17.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and twenty minutes including one twenty-minute interval.

Figaro Joshua Bloom (until Mar 6) Shane Lowrencev Cherubino Dominica Matthews Marcellina Jacqueline Dark Bartolo Conal Coad (until Mar 6) Jud Arthur

Don Basilio Kanen Breen Don Curzio Graeme Macfarlane Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

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Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

The Marriage of Figaro

It’s a special day in the Almaviva household. Susanna, the housemaid, and Figaro, the security guard, are getting married! And the boss has, with great magnanimity, provided them with brand new married quarters, ideally positioned right between his and his wife’s bedrooms.

Wait a minute… Ideally positioned for whom? Could Almaviva have his eye on the bride?

It may be a 200-year-old masterpiece, but The Marriage of Figaro is as insightful as the day it was written, revealing the games people play and the things they say as they dress up, dress down, and take their role in society.

l.

In 2012, we celebrate Figaro’s wedding day with a new production from one of the most exciting theatrical minds in Australia. Benedict Andrews is a true classicist, with a string of awardwinning productions of Shakespeare to his name. Now he turns to opera. What will he make of the man who can weave melodies, emotions, and notes together into a perfect web of humanity?

Conductor Simon Hewett (until Mar 6) Anthony Legge Director Benedict Andrews Set Designer Ralph Myers Costume Designer Alice Babidge

Lighting Designer Nick Schlieper Count Almaviva Michael Lewis Countess Elvira Fatykhova Susanna Taryn Fiebig

How will he use Jeremy Sams’s crisp English translation and Ralph Myers’s ingenious set? And what will he do with a cast which is simply outstanding, dramatically and vocally?

Joshua Bloom is Figaro, Taryn Fiebig is Susanna and Michael Lewis is a Count to be reckoned with, while spectacular Russian soprano Elvira Fatykhova plays the Countess for the first time in Sydney. Later in the season, Shane Lowrencev steps into the role of Figaro, and Simon Hewett hands over the baton to Opera Australia’s Assistant Music Director Anthony Legge.

Evenings at 7:30pm: February 6, 10, 16, 18, 24, 28.

March 2, 6, 9, 14, 24.

Matinee at 1pm: March 17.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and twenty minutes including one twenty-minute interval.

Figaro Joshua Bloom (until Mar 6) Shane Lowrencev Cherubino Dominica Matthews Marcellina Jacqueline Dark Bartolo Conal Coad (until Mar 6) Jud Arthur

Don Basilio Kanen Breen Don Curzio Graeme Macfarlane Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

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Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

Così fan tutte “Jim Sharman’s new production of Così fan tutte is bold and beautiful - a visual feast in which Mozart’s sparkling music is matched by exuberant performances.”

The Sunday Telegraph

A Mozartean summer draws to a close with his bittersweet portrayal of young love, Così fan tutte.

This is Mozart at his most intimate, most romantic, most exquisite.

This is music which gets to the heart of what it is to love.

Jim Sharman’s production, first seen in 2009, is not just a celebration of Mozart’s genius: it is also a celebration of the imagination, the creativity and the talent of a new generation. Ralph Myers, new artistic director of Belvoir Street Theatre, is set designer, Gabriela Tylesova has created the fabulous frocks and elaborate disguises. With an irreverent English translation from Jeremy Sams, this production is playful, surprising and true.

Meanwhile, a new cohort of young Australian singers comes to the miraculous music of Mozart afresh: Sharon Prero is Fiordiligi, Sian Pendry reprises her role as Dorabella, and Stephen Smith and Samuel Dundas make their role debuts as Ferrando and Guglielmo. Richard Anderson is the subversive Don Alfonso, Lorina Gore is naughty Despina, and to lead them all we are pleased to welcome back the exciting, young conductor Benjamin Northey.

Welcome to the School for Lovers.

There are many lessons to be learned.

Can women be trusted? Can men?

And would you rather win a bet, or win someone’s heart? These are the questions when Ferrando and Guglielmo take on Don Alfonso’s challenge to try and seduce each other’s partner. But will they like what they learn?

Conductor Benjamin Northey Director Jim Sharman Set Designer Ralph Myers Costume Designer Gabriela Tylesova

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Lighting Designer Damien Cooper Visual Designer Mic Gruchy

Evenings at 7:30pm: March 8, 10, 15, 17, 20, 22, 26.

Matinee at 1pm: March 24.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and ten minutes including one twenty-minute interval.

Fiordiligi Sharon Prero Dorabella Sian Pendry Ferrando Stephen Smith Guglielmo Samuel Dundas

Despina Lorina Gore Don Alfonso Richard Anderson Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

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Wolfgang Amadeus MOZART

Così fan tutte “Jim Sharman’s new production of Così fan tutte is bold and beautiful - a visual feast in which Mozart’s sparkling music is matched by exuberant performances.”

The Sunday Telegraph

A Mozartean summer draws to a close with his bittersweet portrayal of young love, Così fan tutte.

This is Mozart at his most intimate, most romantic, most exquisite.

This is music which gets to the heart of what it is to love.

Jim Sharman’s production, first seen in 2009, is not just a celebration of Mozart’s genius: it is also a celebration of the imagination, the creativity and the talent of a new generation. Ralph Myers, new artistic director of Belvoir Street Theatre, is set designer, Gabriela Tylesova has created the fabulous frocks and elaborate disguises. With an irreverent English translation from Jeremy Sams, this production is playful, surprising and true.

Meanwhile, a new cohort of young Australian singers comes to the miraculous music of Mozart afresh: Sharon Prero is Fiordiligi, Sian Pendry reprises her role as Dorabella, and Stephen Smith and Samuel Dundas make their role debuts as Ferrando and Guglielmo. Richard Anderson is the subversive Don Alfonso, Lorina Gore is naughty Despina, and to lead them all we are pleased to welcome back the exciting, young conductor Benjamin Northey.

Welcome to the School for Lovers.

There are many lessons to be learned.

Can women be trusted? Can men?

And would you rather win a bet, or win someone’s heart? These are the questions when Ferrando and Guglielmo take on Don Alfonso’s challenge to try and seduce each other’s partner. But will they like what they learn?

Conductor Benjamin Northey Director Jim Sharman Set Designer Ralph Myers Costume Designer Gabriela Tylesova

12

Lighting Designer Damien Cooper Visual Designer Mic Gruchy

Evenings at 7:30pm: March 8, 10, 15, 17, 20, 22, 26.

Matinee at 1pm: March 24.

Performed in English with surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and ten minutes including one twenty-minute interval.

Fiordiligi Sharon Prero Dorabella Sian Pendry Ferrando Stephen Smith Guglielmo Samuel Dundas

Despina Lorina Gore Don Alfonso Richard Anderson Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

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Erich Wolfgang KORNGOLD

Die tote Stadt Photographs, paintings, a lock of hair.

Paul clings to the memory of his dead wife, caught between a happy past and an uncertain future. Can Marietta, who bears an uncanny likeness to his dead wife, help him leave the shadowlands?

Or is it a journey he must make all by himself?

Presenting the Australian stage premiere of Die tote Stadt, directed by Bruce Beresford, designed by John Stoddart, conducted by Christian Badea and starring German Heldentenor Stefan Vinke as Paul and Cheryl Barker in the dual roles of Marie and Marietta.

Evenings at 7:30pm: June 30.

July 3, 7, 10, 13, 16, 18.

Performed in German with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and forty minutes with one twenty-minute interval.

Korngold is best known as a masterful film composer, having scored such classics as The Sea Hawk starring Errol Flynn. His operatic music shows the influence of Puccini and Richard Strauss with its huge orchestra and soaring vocal writing. Die tote Stadt, ‘The Dead City’, is a little known masterpiece of the twentieth century.

Conductor Christian Badea Director Bruce Beresford Set & Costume Designer John Stoddart Lighting Designer Nigel Levings

The phantasmagorical plot and the physical demands on the central character mean it is very difficult to stage and very difficult to sing. Yet it contains some of the most impossibly lovely music written for the stage. By turns lush and exuberant, tender and lyrical, Korngold writes music which maps the human heart.

This production breaks new ground for opera in Australia. On stage, pictures come to life using the latest digital technology. Off stage, Korngold’s sumptuous orchestral textures will fill the Opera Theatre with state-of-the-art cinematic surround sound, coming from a live performance from the Studio, Sydney Opera House.

Die tote Stadt contains some of the most ravishingly beautiful music written for opera and this is the Australian premiere of this masterpiece.

Paul Stefan Vinke Marie/Mariette Cheryl Barker Frank Michael Honeyman Brigitta Deborah Humble Lucienne Dominica Matthews

Victorin David Corcoran Count Albert Kanen Breen Fritz José Carbó Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

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15

Erich Wolfgang KORNGOLD

Die tote Stadt Photographs, paintings, a lock of hair.

Paul clings to the memory of his dead wife, caught between a happy past and an uncertain future. Can Marietta, who bears an uncanny likeness to his dead wife, help him leave the shadowlands?

Or is it a journey he must make all by himself?

Presenting the Australian stage premiere of Die tote Stadt, directed by Bruce Beresford, designed by John Stoddart, conducted by Christian Badea and starring German Heldentenor Stefan Vinke as Paul and Cheryl Barker in the dual roles of Marie and Marietta.

Evenings at 7:30pm: June 30.

July 3, 7, 10, 13, 16, 18.

Performed in German with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and forty minutes with one twenty-minute interval.

Korngold is best known as a masterful film composer, having scored such classics as The Sea Hawk starring Errol Flynn. His operatic music shows the influence of Puccini and Richard Strauss with its huge orchestra and soaring vocal writing. Die tote Stadt, ‘The Dead City’, is a little known masterpiece of the twentieth century.

Conductor Christian Badea Director Bruce Beresford Set & Costume Designer John Stoddart Lighting Designer Nigel Levings

The phantasmagorical plot and the physical demands on the central character mean it is very difficult to stage and very difficult to sing. Yet it contains some of the most impossibly lovely music written for the stage. By turns lush and exuberant, tender and lyrical, Korngold writes music which maps the human heart.

This production breaks new ground for opera in Australia. On stage, pictures come to life using the latest digital technology. Off stage, Korngold’s sumptuous orchestral textures will fill the Opera Theatre with state-of-the-art cinematic surround sound, coming from a live performance from the Studio, Sydney Opera House.

Die tote Stadt contains some of the most ravishingly beautiful music written for opera and this is the Australian premiere of this masterpiece.

Paul Stefan Vinke Marie/Mariette Cheryl Barker Frank Michael Honeyman Brigitta Deborah Humble Lucienne Dominica Matthews

Victorin David Corcoran Count Albert Kanen Breen Fritz José Carbó Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

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Georges BIZET

The Pearlfishers A Frenchman’s exotic imaginings of Ancient Ceylon transform the Opera Theatre when Bizet’s The Pearlfishers returns with an exciting young cast under the baton of French conductor Guillaume Tourniaire.

This handsome production, created by Ann-Margret Pettersson with designs

by John Conklin and Clare Mitchell, is as captivating as ever - a stunning confection of masks and veils, fire and water, gold and silver - while Bizet’s music, full of soaring melodies and atmospheric vocal ensembles, continues to top the operatic charts.

Bizet’s duet, ‘In the Depths of the Temple’, has been a showstopper since it was first performed.

But not everyone knows the spectacular arias of the virgin princess Léïla, the moving choruses, the inventive orchestral colours and beguiling dances which take you to far off lands.

Conductor Guillaume Tourniaire Director Ann-Margret Pettersson Set Designer John Conklin Costume Designer Clare Mitchell

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Choreographer Rosetta Cook Lighting Designer Nigel Levings

So join Zurga and Nadir on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Hear their solemn vow. See their friendship tested by an uncontrollable passion. Revel in the music, the drama, the glorious trappings of this beautiful tale.

Watch out for young Australian baritone Andrew Jones making his role debut as Zurga, with tenor Henry Choo returning to the role of Nadir. And don’t miss Australian soprano Jessica Pratt, who has been wowing audiences at Italy’s Teatro La Fenice, make her Opera Australia debut as the alluring, the enchanting, the utterly entrancing Léïla.

Zurga Andrew Jones Nadir Henry Choo (until 28 Jul) John Longmuir Léïla Jessica Pratt Nourabad Jud Arthur

Evenings at 7:30pm: July 4, 9, 11, 14, 19, 21, 23, 25, 30.

August 4.

Matinees at 1pm: July 7, 28.

Performed in French with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and twenty minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus Opera Australia Dancers

17

Georges BIZET

The Pearlfishers A Frenchman’s exotic imaginings of Ancient Ceylon transform the Opera Theatre when Bizet’s The Pearlfishers returns with an exciting young cast under the baton of French conductor Guillaume Tourniaire.

This handsome production, created by Ann-Margret Pettersson with designs

by John Conklin and Clare Mitchell, is as captivating as ever - a stunning confection of masks and veils, fire and water, gold and silver - while Bizet’s music, full of soaring melodies and atmospheric vocal ensembles, continues to top the operatic charts.

Bizet’s duet, ‘In the Depths of the Temple’, has been a showstopper since it was first performed.

But not everyone knows the spectacular arias of the virgin princess Léïla, the moving choruses, the inventive orchestral colours and beguiling dances which take you to far off lands.

Conductor Guillaume Tourniaire Director Ann-Margret Pettersson Set Designer John Conklin Costume Designer Clare Mitchell

16

Choreographer Rosetta Cook Lighting Designer Nigel Levings

So join Zurga and Nadir on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Hear their solemn vow. See their friendship tested by an uncontrollable passion. Revel in the music, the drama, the glorious trappings of this beautiful tale.

Watch out for young Australian baritone Andrew Jones making his role debut as Zurga, with tenor Henry Choo returning to the role of Nadir. And don’t miss Australian soprano Jessica Pratt, who has been wowing audiences at Italy’s Teatro La Fenice, make her Opera Australia debut as the alluring, the enchanting, the utterly entrancing Léïla.

Zurga Andrew Jones Nadir Henry Choo (until 28 Jul) John Longmuir Léïla Jessica Pratt Nourabad Jud Arthur

Evenings at 7:30pm: July 4, 9, 11, 14, 19, 21, 23, 25, 30.

August 4.

Matinees at 1pm: July 7, 28.

Performed in French with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately two hours and twenty minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus Opera Australia Dancers

17

Giuseppe VERDI

Aida “This is not only grand, it’s downright entertaining.”

THE AUSTRALIAN Aida is the stuff of operatic legend. Goldclad warriors and lithe dancers traverse the stage, pyramids emblazoned with mysterious hieroglyphs loom from the shadows, while Verdi’s moving arias tell the epic story of two peoples at war.

This is grand opera, writ large, brought to the stage by a veritable master of spectacle.

Graeme Murphy’s production of Verdi’s Aida is back to fill the stage of the Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House with soaring voices and glittering pageantry.

At its heart, Aida is a tale of star-crossed lovers. Radamès is the general of the Egyptian army, Aida is an Ethiopian princess, and the two are on opposite sides of a bitter war. Aida is captured in battle and given to the Egyptian princess Amneris as a slave. Radamès falls for Aida, Amneris falls for Radamès, and Aida is left to choose between her love for Radamès, and love for her country.

Conductor Arvo Volmer (until 6 Aug) Anthony Legge (28 Jul only) Andrea Licata Director Graeme Murphy

18

Set Designer Roger Kirk concept by Graeme Murphy Costume Designer Roger Kirk Choreographer Graeme Murphy

Arvo Volmer, chief conductor of Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, conducts a cast of blazing voices, led by the powerful soprano of Norma Fantini, making her Australian debut in the testing title role. Milijana Nikolic and Rosario La Spina play Amneris and Radamès, while Warwick Fyfe and Michael Honeyman share the role of Aida’s father, Amonasro.

Later in the season we welcome Jacqueline Mabardi to the role of Aida, and Andrea Licata to conduct Verdi’s sweeping score.

Projection Designer The Brothers Gruchy Lighting Designer Damien Cooper

Aida Norma Fantini (until 6 Aug) Jacqueline Mabardi The King Jud Arthur Amneris Milijana Nikolic Radamès Rosario La Spina

Evenings at 7:30pm: July 17, 24, 28, 31.

August 6. September 14, 19, 22, 29.

October 2, 5, 10.

Matinees at 1pm: July 21. August 4.

October 13.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and ten minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Amonasro Warwick Fyfe (until 31 July, from 14 Sep) Michael Honeyman (4, 6 Aug and 10, 13 Oct) Ramfis Paul Whelan (until 6 Aug) David Parkin Messenger Andrew Brunsdon

High Priestess Nicole Car Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus An Opera Conference co-production.

19

Giuseppe VERDI

Aida “This is not only grand, it’s downright entertaining.”

THE AUSTRALIAN Aida is the stuff of operatic legend. Goldclad warriors and lithe dancers traverse the stage, pyramids emblazoned with mysterious hieroglyphs loom from the shadows, while Verdi’s moving arias tell the epic story of two peoples at war.

This is grand opera, writ large, brought to the stage by a veritable master of spectacle.

Graeme Murphy’s production of Verdi’s Aida is back to fill the stage of the Opera Theatre, Sydney Opera House with soaring voices and glittering pageantry.

At its heart, Aida is a tale of star-crossed lovers. Radamès is the general of the Egyptian army, Aida is an Ethiopian princess, and the two are on opposite sides of a bitter war. Aida is captured in battle and given to the Egyptian princess Amneris as a slave. Radamès falls for Aida, Amneris falls for Radamès, and Aida is left to choose between her love for Radamès, and love for her country.

Conductor Arvo Volmer (until 6 Aug) Anthony Legge (28 Jul only) Andrea Licata Director Graeme Murphy

18

Set Designer Roger Kirk concept by Graeme Murphy Costume Designer Roger Kirk Choreographer Graeme Murphy

Arvo Volmer, chief conductor of Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, conducts a cast of blazing voices, led by the powerful soprano of Norma Fantini, making her Australian debut in the testing title role. Milijana Nikolic and Rosario La Spina play Amneris and Radamès, while Warwick Fyfe and Michael Honeyman share the role of Aida’s father, Amonasro.

Later in the season we welcome Jacqueline Mabardi to the role of Aida, and Andrea Licata to conduct Verdi’s sweeping score.

Projection Designer The Brothers Gruchy Lighting Designer Damien Cooper

Aida Norma Fantini (until 6 Aug) Jacqueline Mabardi The King Jud Arthur Amneris Milijana Nikolic Radamès Rosario La Spina

Evenings at 7:30pm: July 17, 24, 28, 31.

August 6. September 14, 19, 22, 29.

October 2, 5, 10.

Matinees at 1pm: July 21. August 4.

October 13.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours and ten minutes including two twenty-minute intervals.

Amonasro Warwick Fyfe (until 31 July, from 14 Sep) Michael Honeyman (4, 6 Aug and 10, 13 Oct) Ramfis Paul Whelan (until 6 Aug) David Parkin Messenger Andrew Brunsdon

High Priestess Nicole Car Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus An Opera Conference co-production.

19

RODGERS and HAMMERSTEIN

South Pacific “From the seductive swell of a 30-piece orchestra playing the glorious overture, through the poignant final tableau of love and reconciliation, this is ravishing theatre.”

Variety

“AN UNABASHEDLY BEAUTIFUL SCORE” Newsweek

Evenings at 7:30pm: August 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31.

September 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Matinees at 1pm: August 15, 18, 22, 25, 29.

September 1, 5, 8.

Matinees at 3pm: August 12, 19, 26. September 2, 9.

Running time: Approximately three hours with one twenty-minute interval.

Director Bartlett Sher Musical Staging Christopher Gattelli Set Designer Michael Yeargan Costume Designer Catherine Zuber Lighting Designer Donald Holder

NEW PRODUCTION

“RAPTUROUS AND REVELATORY”

THE MUSICAL

Opera Australia is thrilled to present Lincoln Center Theater’s breathtaking production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific, starring Teddy Tahu Rhodes as Emile.

This ground-breaking Broadway show, directed by Bartlett Sher, swept the 2008 Tony Awards and played to soldout houses in New York for two years.

Now it comes to the Sydney Opera House for a four-week season before embarking on a national tour.

Nellie is a nurse on a US naval base on a remote island somewhere in the Pacific.

Emile is the local plantation owner.

They fall in love almost instantly, but as Emile’s colourful past emerges Nellie loses her nerve. It may be paradise, but their world is still full of prejudice, racism and the harsh realities of war.

Sound Designer Scott Lehrer Music Director Andrew Greene Orchestrations Robert Russell Bennett Dance & Incidental Music Arrangements Trude Rittmann

Emile Teddy Tahu Rhodes Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra

The role of Emile was originally written for an operatic voice, so it is fitting that Teddy Tahu Rhodes heads the all-star company bringing this twentiethcentury classic to our very own Pacific island.

Relive the romance and remember those showstopping numbers - ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, ‘Bali Ha’i’, ‘There is Nothin’ Like a Dame’ - but whatever you do, don’t miss this multi-award-winning piece of theatre.

Music Lyrics Richard Rodgers Oscar Hammerstein II Book Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener Original Stage Production directed by Joshua Logan This production of South Pacific is based on the Lincoln Center Theater production, first performed in New York on 1 March 2008.

Original Music Director Ted Sperling The production is presented by kind arrangement with Bob Boyett.

“A SHOW YOU WILL REMEMBER FOREVER” Star-Ledger

New York Times Poster art © James McMullan

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21

RODGERS and HAMMERSTEIN

South Pacific “From the seductive swell of a 30-piece orchestra playing the glorious overture, through the poignant final tableau of love and reconciliation, this is ravishing theatre.”

Variety

“AN UNABASHEDLY BEAUTIFUL SCORE” Newsweek

Evenings at 7:30pm: August 11, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31.

September 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.

Matinees at 1pm: August 15, 18, 22, 25, 29.

September 1, 5, 8.

Matinees at 3pm: August 12, 19, 26. September 2, 9.

Running time: Approximately three hours with one twenty-minute interval.

Director Bartlett Sher Musical Staging Christopher Gattelli Set Designer Michael Yeargan Costume Designer Catherine Zuber Lighting Designer Donald Holder

NEW PRODUCTION

“RAPTUROUS AND REVELATORY”

THE MUSICAL

Opera Australia is thrilled to present Lincoln Center Theater’s breathtaking production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s South Pacific, starring Teddy Tahu Rhodes as Emile.

This ground-breaking Broadway show, directed by Bartlett Sher, swept the 2008 Tony Awards and played to soldout houses in New York for two years.

Now it comes to the Sydney Opera House for a four-week season before embarking on a national tour.

Nellie is a nurse on a US naval base on a remote island somewhere in the Pacific.

Emile is the local plantation owner.

They fall in love almost instantly, but as Emile’s colourful past emerges Nellie loses her nerve. It may be paradise, but their world is still full of prejudice, racism and the harsh realities of war.

Sound Designer Scott Lehrer Music Director Andrew Greene Orchestrations Robert Russell Bennett Dance & Incidental Music Arrangements Trude Rittmann

Emile Teddy Tahu Rhodes Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra

The role of Emile was originally written for an operatic voice, so it is fitting that Teddy Tahu Rhodes heads the all-star company bringing this twentiethcentury classic to our very own Pacific island.

Relive the romance and remember those showstopping numbers - ‘Some Enchanted Evening’, ‘Bali Ha’i’, ‘There is Nothin’ Like a Dame’ - but whatever you do, don’t miss this multi-award-winning piece of theatre.

Music Lyrics Richard Rodgers Oscar Hammerstein II Book Oscar Hammerstein II and Joshua Logan Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel Tales of the South Pacific by James A. Michener Original Stage Production directed by Joshua Logan This production of South Pacific is based on the Lincoln Center Theater production, first performed in New York on 1 March 2008.

Original Music Director Ted Sperling The production is presented by kind arrangement with Bob Boyett.

“A SHOW YOU WILL REMEMBER FOREVER” Star-Ledger

New York Times Poster art © James McMullan

20

21

Giacomo PUCCINI

Madama Butterfly You know they will fall in love. You know they will part. You know Butterfly will wait, faithfully, until the one fine day he returns. You know these things.

But even if you have experienced the rich colours, the gracious choreography and the poetic elegance of this production, even if you have already lived the heart-breaking story, Puccini’s desperately romantic music will still move you, will still make you fall in love with opera all over again.

We promise.

Lieutenant Pinkerton has just arrived in Nagasaki, where his ship will be stationed for an extended tour of duty.

While he is there, he intends to live well. The local fixer, Goro, has rented a house with a view for him, and hired the staff. All that is missing is a little wife to come home to. Goro can provide. He knows a girl. Her name is Butterfly.

Conductor Ryusuke Numajiri (until 17 Oct) Tom Woods Director Moffatt Oxenbould Set & Costume Designers Peter England & Russell Cohen Lighting Designer Robert Bryan

22

Cio-Cio-San Hiromi Omura (until 20 Oct) Antoinette Halloran Pinkerton James Egglestone (until 20 Oct) David Corcoran Suzuki Dominica Matthews

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is one of the world’s favourite operas, and this is one of Opera Australia’s most celebrated productions. It returns in 2012 for a strictly limited run with celebrated Japanese soprano Hiromi Omura in the title role. She is joined by young Australian tenor James Egglestone, making his role debut as the dastardly Pinkerton, with Michael Lewis as Sharpless and Dominica Matthews as Suzuki. And to conduct, we welcome Ryusuke Numajiri.

Sharpless Michael Lewis (until 20 Oct) Andrew Moran Goro Graeme Macfarlane The Bonze Jud Arthur Yamadori Luke Gabbedy

Evenings at 7:30pm: September 20, 25.

October 1, 13, 17, 22, 27, 30.

November 1.

Matinees at 1pm: September 29. October 6, 20.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Duration: Approximately two hours and thirty-five minutes including one twentyminute interval.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

23

Giacomo PUCCINI

Madama Butterfly You know they will fall in love. You know they will part. You know Butterfly will wait, faithfully, until the one fine day he returns. You know these things.

But even if you have experienced the rich colours, the gracious choreography and the poetic elegance of this production, even if you have already lived the heart-breaking story, Puccini’s desperately romantic music will still move you, will still make you fall in love with opera all over again.

We promise.

Lieutenant Pinkerton has just arrived in Nagasaki, where his ship will be stationed for an extended tour of duty.

While he is there, he intends to live well. The local fixer, Goro, has rented a house with a view for him, and hired the staff. All that is missing is a little wife to come home to. Goro can provide. He knows a girl. Her name is Butterfly.

Conductor Ryusuke Numajiri (until 17 Oct) Tom Woods Director Moffatt Oxenbould Set & Costume Designers Peter England & Russell Cohen Lighting Designer Robert Bryan

22

Cio-Cio-San Hiromi Omura (until 20 Oct) Antoinette Halloran Pinkerton James Egglestone (until 20 Oct) David Corcoran Suzuki Dominica Matthews

Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is one of the world’s favourite operas, and this is one of Opera Australia’s most celebrated productions. It returns in 2012 for a strictly limited run with celebrated Japanese soprano Hiromi Omura in the title role. She is joined by young Australian tenor James Egglestone, making his role debut as the dastardly Pinkerton, with Michael Lewis as Sharpless and Dominica Matthews as Suzuki. And to conduct, we welcome Ryusuke Numajiri.

Sharpless Michael Lewis (until 20 Oct) Andrew Moran Goro Graeme Macfarlane The Bonze Jud Arthur Yamadori Luke Gabbedy

Evenings at 7:30pm: September 20, 25.

October 1, 13, 17, 22, 27, 30.

November 1.

Matinees at 1pm: September 29. October 6, 20.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Duration: Approximately two hours and thirty-five minutes including one twentyminute interval.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

23

Gaetano DONIZETTI

Lucia di Lammermoor Late one night, under a storm-clad sky, two lovers meet in secret. Stalked by fate, haunted by tragedy and kept apart by the heartless machinations of two feuding families, their vows of devotion seem doomed.

But then they sing, and the dazzling hope and desperate passion of Donizetti’s music fills the stage with light.

Evenings at 7:30pm: September 28. October 3, 6, 9, 11, 18, 20, 24. November 2.

Matinee at 1pm: October 27.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours including two twenty-minute intervals.

Opera Australia presents Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, in a new coproduction with Teatro La Fenice and Houston Grand Opera. John Doyle directs this fresh new interpretation, with lighting and projections by Jane Cox and period costumes by Liz Ascroft. The result is an atmospheric, psychologically searching take on a thrilling tale.

Conductor Christian Badea Director John Doyle Set & Costume Designer Liz Ascroft Lighting Designer Jane Cox

Lucia Emma Matthews Edgardo James Valenti Enrico Giorgio Caoduro Raimondo Richard Anderson Arturo Stephen Smith

Donizetti’s score is full of gracious melody and intricate vocal colours, which reach their climax in Lucia’s final aria. It is a mad scene to end all mad scenes, an Olympian display of the power of the human voice, and there are few singers in the world who can do it justice. Emma Matthews is one of them.

Emma Mathews, a leading exponent of the bel canto repertoire, is joined by a thrilling pair of international singers. Charismatic Italian baritone Giorgio Caoduro is Lucia’s cruel brother Enrico, and as Edgardo we welcome James Valenti, a rising star who has just made his debut at New York’s Metropolitan Opera. Rounding out this fabulous cast are Stephen Smith as Arturo, Richard Anderson as Raimondo, Teresa La Rocca as Alisa, and Andrew Brunsdon as Normanno.

Alisa Teresa La Rocca Normanno Andrew Brunsdon

A co-production with Houston Grand Opera and Teatro La Fenice

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

24

25

Gaetano DONIZETTI

Lucia di Lammermoor Late one night, under a storm-clad sky, two lovers meet in secret. Stalked by fate, haunted by tragedy and kept apart by the heartless machinations of two feuding families, their vows of devotion seem doomed.

But then they sing, and the dazzling hope and desperate passion of Donizetti’s music fills the stage with light.

Evenings at 7:30pm: September 28. October 3, 6, 9, 11, 18, 20, 24. November 2.

Matinee at 1pm: October 27.

Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately three hours including two twenty-minute intervals.

Opera Australia presents Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, in a new coproduction with Teatro La Fenice and Houston Grand Opera. John Doyle directs this fresh new interpretation, with lighting and projections by Jane Cox and period costumes by Liz Ascroft. The result is an atmospheric, psychologically searching take on a thrilling tale.

Conductor Christian Badea Director John Doyle Set & Costume Designer Liz Ascroft Lighting Designer Jane Cox

Lucia Emma Matthews Edgardo James Valenti Enrico Giorgio Caoduro Raimondo Richard Anderson Arturo Stephen Smith

Donizetti’s score is full of gracious melody and intricate vocal colours, which reach their climax in Lucia’s final aria. It is a mad scene to end all mad scenes, an Olympian display of the power of the human voice, and there are few singers in the world who can do it justice. Emma Matthews is one of them.

Emma Mathews, a leading exponent of the bel canto repertoire, is joined by a thrilling pair of international singers. Charismatic Italian baritone Giorgio Caoduro is Lucia’s cruel brother Enrico, and as Edgardo we welcome James Valenti, a rising star who has just made his debut at New York’s Metropolitan Opera. Rounding out this fabulous cast are Stephen Smith as Arturo, Richard Anderson as Raimondo, Teresa La Rocca as Alisa, and Andrew Brunsdon as Normanno.

Alisa Teresa La Rocca Normanno Andrew Brunsdon

A co-production with Houston Grand Opera and Teatro La Fenice

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Opera Australia Chorus

NEW PRODUCTION

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25

Richard STRAUSS

Salome Salome is sexy. She is subversive. She is a femme fatale. Like an earthy spirit of decadence, her song blows the civilised sensibilities of the world apart. Tanz für mich, Salome…Dance for me, Salome.

Richard Strauss’s Salome caused a sensation when it premiered in Europe in 1905. It has been shocking and enthralling audiences ever since.

The music is by turns ravishing and disturbing, pushing the boundaries of romantic music with burnished tones and fiery harmonies.

And who will play Salome?

Now Gale Edwards, who thrilled audiences with her edgy and brilliant La bohème in 2011, directs a new production of Richard Strauss’s explosive one-act opera, with sets

by Brian Thomson and Johannes Fritzsch conducting.

Who else, but one of the world’s leading interpreters of the great Strauss heroines, Cheryl Barker, recreating a role she first sang to great acclaim at London’s English National Opera. On stage with her is the magnificent John Wegner as Jokanaan, a moral beacon in a sea of decadence, and tenor John Pickering making his company debut in the role of Herod. Jacqueline Dark plays Herod’s wife Herodias, David Corcoran is Narraboth, and a grand ensemble cast peoples the court of Herod.

Conductor Johannes Fritzsch Director Gale Edwards Set Designer Brian Thomson Costume Designer Julie Lynch Lighting Designer John Rayment

Page to Herodias Sian Pendry Jew 1 Kanen Breen Jew 2 Andrew Brunsdon Jew 3 Graeme Macfarlane Jew 4 John Longmuir

Strauss throws all his musical powers into the biblical story of a princess, a prisoner, a dance and a death.

Herod John Pickering Herodias Jacqueline Dark Salome Cheryl Barker Jokanaan John Wegner Narraboth David Corcoran

Jew 5 Richard Anderson First Nazarene Shane Lowrencev Second Nazarene Luke Gabbedy Soldier 1 Richard Anderson A Cappadocian Andrew Moran

Evenings at 7:30pm: October 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29, 31.

Matinee at 1pm: November 3.

Performed in German with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately one hour and forty minutes – no interval.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra An Opera Conference co-production.

NEW PRODUCTION

26

27

Richard STRAUSS

Salome Salome is sexy. She is subversive. She is a femme fatale. Like an earthy spirit of decadence, her song blows the civilised sensibilities of the world apart. Tanz für mich, Salome…Dance for me, Salome.

Richard Strauss’s Salome caused a sensation when it premiered in Europe in 1905. It has been shocking and enthralling audiences ever since.

The music is by turns ravishing and disturbing, pushing the boundaries of romantic music with burnished tones and fiery harmonies.

And who will play Salome?

Now Gale Edwards, who thrilled audiences with her edgy and brilliant La bohème in 2011, directs a new production of Richard Strauss’s explosive one-act opera, with sets

by Brian Thomson and Johannes Fritzsch conducting.

Who else, but one of the world’s leading interpreters of the great Strauss heroines, Cheryl Barker, recreating a role she first sang to great acclaim at London’s English National Opera. On stage with her is the magnificent John Wegner as Jokanaan, a moral beacon in a sea of decadence, and tenor John Pickering making his company debut in the role of Herod. Jacqueline Dark plays Herod’s wife Herodias, David Corcoran is Narraboth, and a grand ensemble cast peoples the court of Herod.

Conductor Johannes Fritzsch Director Gale Edwards Set Designer Brian Thomson Costume Designer Julie Lynch Lighting Designer John Rayment

Page to Herodias Sian Pendry Jew 1 Kanen Breen Jew 2 Andrew Brunsdon Jew 3 Graeme Macfarlane Jew 4 John Longmuir

Strauss throws all his musical powers into the biblical story of a princess, a prisoner, a dance and a death.

Herod John Pickering Herodias Jacqueline Dark Salome Cheryl Barker Jokanaan John Wegner Narraboth David Corcoran

Jew 5 Richard Anderson First Nazarene Shane Lowrencev Second Nazarene Luke Gabbedy Soldier 1 Richard Anderson A Cappadocian Andrew Moran

Evenings at 7:30pm: October 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29, 31.

Matinee at 1pm: November 3.

Performed in German with English surtitles.

Running time: Approximately one hour and forty minutes – no interval.

Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra An Opera Conference co-production.

NEW PRODUCTION

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The Opera Gala

Sydney Opera House | New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve. It’s time to treat yourself to a grand night at the opera in the company of some of Opera Australia’s finest artists, accompanied by the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra. Your favourite artists, your favourite operatic moments, performed by a stellar cast in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House. Glorious.

We’ll meet a countess, a count, a soldier and a courtesan. We’ll hear love songs, fanfares and rousing music including some of opera’s greatest arias and most famous tunes, like the famous ‘Sempre libera’ from La traviata and the showstopping ‘Nessun dorma!’ from Turandot. And we’ll take a look back over the year, have a laugh, and maybe even shed a tear. Then it will be time to charge our glasses and welcome in the New Year.

The Opera Gala at the Sydney Opera House on New Year’s is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of 2012 in truly operatic style. Don’t miss celebrating the early hours of 2012 with Opera Australia under the world’s most famous sails. An exclusive selection of the best seats in each reserve are on hold for subscribers for a limited time only.

Make your evening truly memorable by joining us for our famous Pre-Gala Dinner and Midnight Party in the Northern Foyer of the Sydney Opera House. These special events, which offer a sumptuous menu, live entertainment and panoramic views of sparkling Sydney Harbour, are only available in conjunction with Gala Concert Tickets.

Buy all three events in Premium Reserve for $895, or in A Reserve for $875 and save up to $75, or, for the ultimate experience at The Opera Gala, purchase the platinum package for $975.

Premium

$370

A Reserve

$310

B Reserve

$270

C Reserve

$220

Pre Gala Dinner

$350

Midnight Party

$250

Conductor Andrew Greene Host Jonathan Biggins Featuring Elvira Fatykhova Emma Matthews • Rosario La Spina Carlo Barricelli • Joshua Bloom Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Performance: 8pm • Saturday 31 December 2011 Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House

Platinum Package for $975 (Includes Pre-Gala Dinner, a platinum reserve ticket, program, a glass of champagne at interval and entry to the midnight party)

Principal Partner

Strategic Partner

28

Opera Australia Government & Hero Partners

29

The Opera Gala

Sydney Opera House | New Year’s Eve New Year’s Eve. It’s time to treat yourself to a grand night at the opera in the company of some of Opera Australia’s finest artists, accompanied by the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra. Your favourite artists, your favourite operatic moments, performed by a stellar cast in the Concert Hall of the Sydney Opera House. Glorious.

We’ll meet a countess, a count, a soldier and a courtesan. We’ll hear love songs, fanfares and rousing music including some of opera’s greatest arias and most famous tunes, like the famous ‘Sempre libera’ from La traviata and the showstopping ‘Nessun dorma!’ from Turandot. And we’ll take a look back over the year, have a laugh, and maybe even shed a tear. Then it will be time to charge our glasses and welcome in the New Year.

The Opera Gala at the Sydney Opera House on New Year’s is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of 2012 in truly operatic style. Don’t miss celebrating the early hours of 2012 with Opera Australia under the world’s most famous sails. An exclusive selection of the best seats in each reserve are on hold for subscribers for a limited time only.

Make your evening truly memorable by joining us for our famous Pre-Gala Dinner and Midnight Party in the Northern Foyer of the Sydney Opera House. These special events, which offer a sumptuous menu, live entertainment and panoramic views of sparkling Sydney Harbour, are only available in conjunction with Gala Concert Tickets.

Buy all three events in Premium Reserve for $895, or in A Reserve for $875 and save up to $75, or, for the ultimate experience at The Opera Gala, purchase the platinum package for $975.

Premium

$370

A Reserve

$310

B Reserve

$270

C Reserve

$220

Pre Gala Dinner

$350

Midnight Party

$250

Conductor Andrew Greene Host Jonathan Biggins Featuring Elvira Fatykhova Emma Matthews • Rosario La Spina Carlo Barricelli • Joshua Bloom Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra Performance: 8pm • Saturday 31 December 2011 Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House

Platinum Package for $975 (Includes Pre-Gala Dinner, a platinum reserve ticket, program, a glass of champagne at interval and entry to the midnight party)

Principal Partner

Strategic Partner

28

Opera Australia Government & Hero Partners

29

Patrons & Friends Opera Australia takes its role as the guardian of opera in this country very seriously. Our role is not only to nurture and develop the finest artists in this country but also to develop our audience to reach as many people as possible so that opera has a vibrant future. A dynamic professional opera company can enrich the intellectual and emotional lives of us all.

Box office revenue only covers a portion of our costs. So if opera moves you, consider joining the Patron Program, becoming a Friend, or contributing to the Challenge Fund, which provides support for the Moffatt Oxenbould Young Artist Program.

All donations are tax deductible and go towards creating a bright future for opera in Australia.

PATRON PROGRAM Yvonne Kenny AM, Patron-in-Chief For more than 30 years members of our Patron Program have helped to build and extend Opera Australia, which in its role as Australia’s largest performing arts company, proudly reaches more than 413,000 people with live performances each year.

Our Patrons’ shared love of opera, their enthusiasm and their generosity have been vital to the development of our artists and our performances. We salute their patronage which helps us to: • Operate year-round with major seasons in Melbourne and Sydney • Nurture artists and craftspeople of the highest calibre • Perform opera to more then 70,000 school children nationally

The Ring Festival

• W ork with local, state-based and international artists and companies • Take opera to remote regional areas around the country • Create a touring opera program that caters to hearing-impaired children

They enjoy special benefits that include: • access to selected dress rehearsals • discounted ‘rush’ tickets to selected performances • invitations to exclusive events such as Opera Insight evenings.

Our Patron Manager, Ailsa Eckel, provides a special personal service for Patrons, including: • Access to premium seats, even at late notice • Priority assistance with subscriptions, bookings and ticket exchanges • Invitations to special events and Opera Insight evenings • Access to open dress rehearsals • Discounted ‘rush’ tickets to selected performances • Acknowledgement in all Opera Australia programs

Memberships for 2012 commence 1 October 2011. For more information please contact Emma Kersey on (02) 9318 8330 or email emma.kersey@opera-australia.org.au

For more information please contact Ailsa Eckel on (02) 9318 8333 or email ailsa.eckel@opera-australia.org.au.

FRIENDS OF OPERA AUSTRALIA By joining the Friends of Opera Australia you can be more than just an audience member – you can become an integral member of our opera community.

Friends of Opera Australia become part of the great Australian opera family, playing a role in supporting a national company dedicated to diverse and artistically vibrant opera in Australia.

As lovers of the art form, Friends of Opera Australia have the opportunity to expand their appreciation and knowledge of opera and our productions.

Level

Subscriber 20% discount

Membership Fee

Mimì

$350

$440

Rodolfo

$225

$280

OPERA CENTRE TOURS Staging an opera involves a thrilling combination of highly talented people from all kinds of disciplines - milliners, wig makers, cobblers, costumiers, designers, carpenters, model makers, scenic artists, choreographers, repertoire and language coaches, stage hands, stage managers, directors, musicians and conductors, not to mention the singers.

It all happens at The Opera Centre in Surry Hills. On weekdays you can take a guided tour of the Opera Centre’s vast production workshops and rehearsal studios, and see firsthand how an opera is made. Bookings must be made in advance.

In 2013, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Richard Wagner, Opera Australia presents its first ever staging of his epic opera cycle, Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung) at the Arts Centre, Melbourne.

Across four nights in the theatre over 350 singers, dancers, orchestral musicians, designers, costume-makers and backstage staff will perform the four mighty operas Das Rheingold (The Rhinegold), Die Walküre (The Valkyrie), Siegfried and Götterdämmerung (Twilight of the Gods), which make up Wagner’s epic vision. There will be three complete cycles performed through November and December 2013.

This four-week festival will present a wide range of activities including comedy, cabaret, mini versions of The Ring of the Nibelung, concert performances of some of Wagner’s contemporaries, the Opera Australia Chorus, Melbourne Conversations, Film, Food and Wine and of course pre-performance talks, lectures, demonstrations and quirky, fascinating events in Melbourne’s atmospheric laneways and unexpected venues!

This is an Australian-led production, with celebrated director Neil Armfield and conductor Richard Mills at the helm, supported by renowned film and theatre designer Robert Cousins. The international cast will include English soprano Susan Bullock as Brünnhilde, Finnish bass-baritone Juha Uusitalo as Wotan, American Heldentenor Gary Lehman as Siegfried and Australian Helden baritone John Wegner as Alberich.

Join us for this complete Wagner experience.

To celebrate The Melbourne Ring Cycle, Opera Australia has devised a festival of discussion, dialogue and diversity to amplify this major event.

Further details about the program for The Ring Festival and casting for The Ring of the Nibelung will be announced over the coming months.

Tickets for The Ring Festival will go on sale at the beginning of 2012. Make sure you do not miss out by registering now for The Ring Festival mailing list. You can register your email details on your subscription application, or online at our website.

For more information, please contact Emma Kersey on (02) 9318 8330 or email emma.kersey@opera-australia.org.au

Left to right: Adrian Collette, Neil Armfield and Lyndon Terracini at the launch of the Melbourne Ring Cycle, the Arts Centre, Melbourne.

30

31

Patrons & Friends Opera Australia takes its role as the guardian of opera in this country very seriously. Our role is not only to nurture and develop the finest artists in this country but also to develop our audience to reach as many people as possible so that opera has a vibrant future. A dynamic professional opera company can enrich the intellectual and emotional lives of us all.

Box office revenue only covers a portion of our costs. So if opera moves you, consider joining the Patron Program, becoming a Friend, or contributing to the Challenge Fund, which provides support for the Moffatt Oxenbould Young Artist Program.

All donations are tax deductible and go towards creating a bright future for opera in Australia.

PATRON PROGRAM Yvonne Kenny AM, Patron-in-Chief For more than 30 years members of our Patron Program have helped to build and extend Opera Australia, which in its role as Australia’s largest performing arts company, proudly reaches more than 413,000 people with live performances each year.

Our Patrons’ shared love of opera, their enthusiasm and their generosity have been vital to the development of our artists and our performances. We salute their patronage which helps us to: • Operate year-round with major seasons in Melbourne and Sydney • Nurture artists and craftspeople of the highest calibre • Perform opera to more then 70,000 school children nationally

The Ring Festival

• W ork with local, state-based and international artists and companies • Take opera to remote regional areas around the country • Create a touring opera program that caters to hearing-impaired children

They enjoy special benefits that include: • access to selected dress rehearsals • discounted ‘rush’ tickets to selected performances • invitations to exclusive events such as Opera Insight evenings.

Our Patron Manager, Ailsa Eckel, provides a special personal service for Patrons, including: • Access to premium seats, even at late notice • Priority assistance with subscriptions, bookings and ticket exchanges • Invitations to special events and Opera Insight evenings • Access to open dress rehearsals • Discounted ‘rush’ tickets to selected performances • Acknowledgement in all Opera Australia programs

Memberships for 2012 commence 1 October 2011. For more information please contact Emma Kersey on (02) 9318 8330 or email emma.kersey@opera-australia.org.au

For more information please contact Ailsa Eckel on (02) 9318 8333 or email ailsa.eckel@opera-australia.org.au.

FRIENDS OF OPERA AUSTRALIA By joining the Friends of Opera Australia you can be more than just an audience member – you can become an integral member of our opera community.

Friends of Opera Australia become part of the great Australian opera family, playing a role in supporting a national company dedicated to diverse and artistically vibrant opera in Australia.

As lovers of the art form, Friends of Opera Australia have the opportunity to expand their appreciation and knowledge of opera and our productions.

Level

Subscriber 20% discount

Membership Fee

Mimì

$350

$440

Rodolfo

$225

$280

OPERA CENTRE TOURS Staging an opera involves a thrilling combination of highly talented people from all kinds of disciplines - milliners, wig makers, cobblers, costumiers, designers, carpenters, model makers, scenic artists, choreographers, repertoire and language coaches, stage hands, stage managers, directors, musicians and conductors, not to mention the singers.

It all happens at The Opera Centre in Surry Hills. On weekdays you can take a guided tour of the Opera Centre’s vast production workshops and rehearsal studios, and see firsthand how an opera is made. Bookings must be made in advance.

In 2013, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Richard Wagner, Opera Australia presents its first ever staging of his epic opera cycle, Der Ring des Nibelungen (The Ring of the Nibelung) at the Arts Centre, Melbourne.

Across four nights in the theatre over 350 singers, dancers, orchestral musicians, designers, costume-makers and backstage staff will perform the four mighty operas Das Rheingold (The Rhinegold), Die Walküre (The Valkyrie), Siegfried and Götterdämmerung (Twilight of the Gods), which make up Wagner’s epic vision. There will be three complete cycles performed through November and December 2013.

This four-week festival will present a wide range of activities including comedy, cabaret, mini versions of The Ring of the Nibelung, concert performances of some of Wagner’s contemporaries, the Opera Australia Chorus, Melbourne Conversations, Film, Food and Wine and of course pre-performance talks, lectures, demonstrations and quirky, fascinating events in Melbourne’s atmospheric laneways and unexpected venues!

This is an Australian-led production, with celebrated director Neil Armfield and conductor Richard Mills at the helm, supported by renowned film and theatre designer Robert Cousins. The international cast will include English soprano Susan Bullock as Brünnhilde, Finnish bass-baritone Juha Uusitalo as Wotan, American Heldentenor Gary Lehman as Siegfried and Australian Helden baritone John Wegner as Alberich.

Join us for this complete Wagner experience.

To celebrate The Melbourne Ring Cycle, Opera Australia has devised a festival of discussion, dialogue and diversity to amplify this major event.

Further details about the program for The Ring Festival and casting for The Ring of the Nibelung will be announced over the coming months.

Tickets for The Ring Festival will go on sale at the beginning of 2012. Make sure you do not miss out by registering now for The Ring Festival mailing list. You can register your email details on your subscription application, or online at our website.

For more information, please contact Emma Kersey on (02) 9318 8330 or email emma.kersey@opera-australia.org.au

Left to right: Adrian Collette, Neil Armfield and Lyndon Terracini at the launch of the Melbourne Ring Cycle, the Arts Centre, Melbourne.

30

31

Take the challenge

Opera Australia online

The world of opera is full of challenges. Getting on stage, singing the right notes, doing the right moves in a costume which restricts your movement and a wig which makes your head feel twice its size, dodging the set, doing the dance and getting your Italian (or German, or Russian, or French) accent just so.

Opera Australia’s website has an extensive collection of resources including photos, audio and video, backstage insights, artist biographies, news and a blog. The site also includes an interactive calendar, full details of ticketing and performances.

But for Australia’s national opera company there is a much bigger challenge. It is the challenge of making opera accessible and relevant to a wider audience, and investing in talent and bright ideas to build a future for this wonderful art form.

When the curtain goes down at the Sydney Opera House or the Arts Centre, Melbourne, our work is just beginning.

GREAT OPERA FOR EVERYONE

OPERA IN THE COMMUNITY

Every year Opera Australia’s Oz Opera takes a fully staged touring version of opera with chamber orchestra to venues in regional and remote Australia: one year audiences might see Carmen in Cairns and the next La traviata in Tennant Creek. An important part of the Regional Tour is the education workshops and master classes with local schools and community involving the singers, orchestra members, creative artists and the technical crew.

For the first time in 2012, Opera Australia will be launching a community choir program where we can share the enthusiasm and expertise of our singers and music professionals to get together and SING! Stay tuned for more details.

AUDIENCES FOR THE FUTURE Through Oz Opera’s Schools Company between 60,000 to 80,000 students in primary schools across NSW and Victoria will experience opera, performed live in their school by Opera Australia’s professional artists. For many children this is the first time they have seen an opera or a live performance.

32

INVESTING IN THE STARS OF TOMORROW In 2012 four artists have been selected to join the Moffatt Oxenbould Young Artist Program. Nicole Car, Kiandra Howarth, John Longmuir and Sam Roberts-Smith will follow in the footsteps of singers like Emma Matthews, Henry Choo and Amelia Farrugia, who are all graduates of the Young Artist Program. The participants perform in productions in Sydney and Melbourne, participate in workshops and master-classes with leading singers and conductors, and are mentored by experienced artists.

These are just some of the many initiatives Opera Australia is taking to meet the challenge of building a great future for opera in Australia. You can take the challenge too, by joining our many supporters who have invested in the Challenge Fund. You can do so by adding a donation to your subscription payment. All donations over $2 are fully tax deductible, and all donations go towards building a great future for opera in Australia.

Best of all, you can now renew your existing subscription or plan and purchase a new subscription online! www.opera-australia.org.au

WHICH OPERA IS RIGHT FOR ME? While visiting our website take our opera questionnaire. Many people are unsure which operas they might enjoy, so we’ve come up with a quick quiz which will take you through the options, let you hear the music and allow you to find out which operas you might enjoy most. Visit www.opera-australia.org.au and follow the onscreen prompts and see where it takes you.

Love talking about opera? Then join the conversation...

STAY IN TOUCH BY EMAIL

FACEBOOK

When you register your email with Opera Australia we’ll send you our regular newsletter, Allerta!, which is full of interviews and features about forthcoming productions. We’ll also send you our informative e-guides prior to each performance you attend. Our e-guides include practical information for your night at the opera and notes about the stories, the music and the performers. Once you have provided Opera Australia with your email address, an e-guide will be sent to your inbox a few days in advance of your chosen performance so you can have a read, and a listen, before attending.

Step into the Opera Australia community at our Facebook page. You can read daily updates on what is happening onstage and off in the world of opera and join the conversation about all things operatic.

You will be the first to know about special offers, priority booking and invitations to events, so don’t forget to include your email address with your subscription, or go to our website to register for email updates now.

facebook.com/OperaAustralia

TWITTER Join the daily chat about opera and the performing arts as we tweet news, photos and backstage reports, answer your questions and announce special offers and competitions. twitter.com/OperaAust

YOUTUBE Opera Australia has its own YouTube Channel. Take a look at a range of trailers, video clips, announcements and features online. youtube.com/operaaustralia

33

Take the challenge

Opera Australia online

The world of opera is full of challenges. Getting on stage, singing the right notes, doing the right moves in a costume which restricts your movement and a wig which makes your head feel twice its size, dodging the set, doing the dance and getting your Italian (or German, or Russian, or French) accent just so.

Opera Australia’s website has an extensive collection of resources including photos, audio and video, backstage insights, artist biographies, news and a blog. The site also includes an interactive calendar, full details of ticketing and performances.

But for Australia’s national opera company there is a much bigger challenge. It is the challenge of making opera accessible and relevant to a wider audience, and investing in talent and bright ideas to build a future for this wonderful art form.

When the curtain goes down at the Sydney Opera House or the Arts Centre, Melbourne, our work is just beginning.

GREAT OPERA FOR EVERYONE

OPERA IN THE COMMUNITY

Every year Opera Australia’s Oz Opera takes a fully staged touring version of opera with chamber orchestra to venues in regional and remote Australia: one year audiences might see Carmen in Cairns and the next La traviata in Tennant Creek. An important part of the Regional Tour is the education workshops and master classes with local schools and community involving the singers, orchestra members, creative artists and the technical crew.

For the first time in 2012, Opera Australia will be launching a community choir program where we can share the enthusiasm and expertise of our singers and music professionals to get together and SING! Stay tuned for more details.

AUDIENCES FOR THE FUTURE Through Oz Opera’s Schools Company between 60,000 to 80,000 students in primary schools across NSW and Victoria will experience opera, performed live in their school by Opera Australia’s professional artists. For many children this is the first time they have seen an opera or a live performance.

32

INVESTING IN THE STARS OF TOMORROW In 2012 four artists have been selected to join the Moffatt Oxenbould Young Artist Program. Nicole Car, Kiandra Howarth, John Longmuir and Sam Roberts-Smith will follow in the footsteps of singers like Emma Matthews, Henry Choo and Amelia Farrugia, who are all graduates of the Young Artist Program. The participants perform in productions in Sydney and Melbourne, participate in workshops and master-classes with leading singers and conductors, and are mentored by experienced artists.

These are just some of the many initiatives Opera Australia is taking to meet the challenge of building a great future for opera in Australia. You can take the challenge too, by joining our many supporters who have invested in the Challenge Fund. You can do so by adding a donation to your subscription payment. All donations over $2 are fully tax deductible, and all donations go towards building a great future for opera in Australia.

Best of all, you can now renew your existing subscription or plan and purchase a new subscription online! www.opera-australia.org.au

WHICH OPERA IS RIGHT FOR ME? While visiting our website take our opera questionnaire. Many people are unsure which operas they might enjoy, so we’ve come up with a quick quiz which will take you through the options, let you hear the music and allow you to find out which operas you might enjoy most. Visit www.opera-australia.org.au and follow the onscreen prompts and see where it takes you.

Love talking about opera? Then join the conversation...

STAY IN TOUCH BY EMAIL

FACEBOOK

When you register your email with Opera Australia we’ll send you our regular newsletter, Allerta!, which is full of interviews and features about forthcoming productions. We’ll also send you our informative e-guides prior to each performance you attend. Our e-guides include practical information for your night at the opera and notes about the stories, the music and the performers. Once you have provided Opera Australia with your email address, an e-guide will be sent to your inbox a few days in advance of your chosen performance so you can have a read, and a listen, before attending.

Step into the Opera Australia community at our Facebook page. You can read daily updates on what is happening onstage and off in the world of opera and join the conversation about all things operatic.

You will be the first to know about special offers, priority booking and invitations to events, so don’t forget to include your email address with your subscription, or go to our website to register for email updates now.

facebook.com/OperaAustralia

TWITTER Join the daily chat about opera and the performing arts as we tweet news, photos and backstage reports, answer your questions and announce special offers and competitions. twitter.com/OperaAust

YOUTUBE Opera Australia has its own YouTube Channel. Take a look at a range of trailers, video clips, announcements and features online. youtube.com/operaaustralia

33

2012 Sydney Summer Season JANUARY

General Information OPERA THEATRE SEATING RESERVES

INSTALMENTS

ACCESSIBILITY PARKING

Subscriptions can be paid in 4 instalments.

Instalments are only available to subscribers paying by credit card. The first payment will be processed on receipt of your booking. The remaining 3 instalments will be charged to the same card on: Friday 18 November, 2011 Friday 13 January, 2012 Friday 2 March, 2012

A limited number of accessible parking spaces are available to holders of an RTA Mobility Parking Scheme Permit at the following locations: A) The Sydney Opera House vehicle concourse (advance booking essential, call 02 9250 7185) B) Wilsons at Sydney Opera House (public car park, early arrival recommended).

Instalments incur a $40 fee per package, which will be spread equally over the 4 payments. If you wish to pay by instalments, your Subscription Form must be received by Friday 9 September, 2011 and must include two winter performances.

HEARING ASSISTANCE

Please note that instalment payments are only available for subscription packages.

Any additional tickets or donations will be charged in full with your first subscription instalment payment.

ADMISSION

CONCESSIONS PERFORMANCE STARTING TIMES Unless otherwise specified, evening performances commence at 7:30pm and Wednesday/Saturday matinees at 1:00pm.

Sunday matinees commence at 3:00pm.

SUBSCRIBER TICKET EXCHANGES All subscribers may exchange their tickets to any other performance in the 2012 season.

Subscribers may exchange their tickets from 14 November 2011. Exchanges are free up until 31 December 2011. Each subscription will come with 1 free exchange voucher for use during the 2012 season. Any additional exchanges will incur a small fee.

To exchange your tickets call (02) 9318 8200 and reserve seats to the opera(s) of your choice, and our Customer Service Representative will talk you through returning your original tickets and advise of any fees.

ADDITIONAL TICKET PRICES FOR SUBSCRIBERS As a subscriber, you can purchase additional single tickets to the 2012 season, and receive a 10% discount.

Additional single tickets can be purchased from 14 November 2011.

34

Concession pricing is available to • Full pensioners (Australian) • Full-time students (Australian) • Children aged 16 years and under When placing your booking you will need a photocopy of your Proof of Age, student ID or pensioner concession card, and be able to present this if requested at performances.

Concessions are not available on Saturday evenings. For children aged 16 years and under a special child subscription price of $55 per ticket is available for all matinee performances, and all Monday to Friday performances of The Magic Flute.

SURTITLE VIEWING A limited number of seats have restricted viewing of surtitles. Please indicate on your booking form when you require seats with a surtitle view.

GST All prices include GST where applicable.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

The Opera Theatre is equipped with an FM Radio system for patrons requiring hearing assistance. Receivers and headsets can be obtained free of charge from the cloakroom prior to the performance.

All ticket holders are bound by Opera Australia’s Terms and Conditions of Sale (page 42).

PERFORMANCE AND CAST DETAILS All details in this brochure are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change. Refer to www.opera-australia.org.au for full performance and cast details.

CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK The Opera Australia Customer Service Desk opens one hour before each performance to assist with ticket and subscription enquiries.

LOST TICKETS Replacement tickets can be arranged by calling (02) 9318 8200 prior to the performance and can only be collected from the Opera Australia Customer Service Desk at the Sydney Opera House immediately prior to the performance. Proof of ID will need to be shown.

FREE OPERA TALKS Free pre-performance opera talks are presented throughout the year and begin 45 minutes before the performance.

Please refer to the calendar (pages 46-47) for dates.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

2

3

4

5

7

7

8

9

11

21 Turandot 28

14 Flute 21 Flute 28

15

18 Flute 25 Flute

12 Flute 19

14

16 Flute * # 23 Flute * # 30 Turandot #

10 Flute 17 Turandot 24 Turandot 31 Flute #

6 Flute 13

29

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1

2 Flute # 9 Flute * 16 Figaro # 23 Flute *

3

4 Turandot # 11 Flute # 18 Figaro # 25 Turandot

5

10 Figaro 17 Flute * 24 Figaro

4 Flute 11 Turandot 18 Turandot # 25 Flute #

20

26

27 Flute

22

FEBRUARY

6 Figaro 13 Flute # 20 27 Flute

7 Flute * 14 Turandot 21 Flute * 28 Figaro #

8 Turandot # 15 Flute * 22 Turandot 29 Turandot

12

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

12 Turandot * 19 Turandot

7 Turandot # 14 Figaro 21 Flute *

2 Figaro * 9 Figaro * 16 Turandot 23 Flute

3 Turandot * 10 Turandot * 17 Figaro # 24 Così #

3 Flute * 10 Così # 17 Così 24 Figaro Harbour

4

6 Figaro 13 Flute 20 Così #

1 Flute * 8 Così 15 Così 22 Così

26 Così #

27 Harbour

28 Harbour

29 Harbour

30 Harbour

31

31 Harbour

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

7 Harbour 14 Harbour

1 Harbour (eve) 8 Harbour (eve) 15 Harbour (eve)

19 26

MARCH

5

11 18 25

APRIL

2 9

3 Harbour 10 Harbour

4 Harbour 11 Harbour

5 Harbour 12 Harbour

6

7

13 Harbour

14

MAT = Matinee EVE = Evening Flute = The Magic Flute Figaro = The Marriage of Figaro Così = Così fan tutte Stadt = Die tote Stadt Pearl = The Pearlfishers Butterfly = Madama Butterfly * The best seats for Choose Your Own subscriptions are on these dates

Harbour = Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour Lucia = Lucia di Lammermoor # Free opera talk prior to the performance

Please indicate on your booking form if you require a wheelchair space and access.

Call Opera Australia Ticket Services on (02) 9318 8200 for more details.

Opening night

Final performance

35

2012 Sydney Summer Season JANUARY

General Information OPERA THEATRE SEATING RESERVES

INSTALMENTS

ACCESSIBILITY PARKING

Subscriptions can be paid in 4 instalments.

Instalments are only available to subscribers paying by credit card. The first payment will be processed on receipt of your booking. The remaining 3 instalments will be charged to the same card on: Friday 18 November, 2011 Friday 13 January, 2012 Friday 2 March, 2012

A limited number of accessible parking spaces are available to holders of an RTA Mobility Parking Scheme Permit at the following locations: A) The Sydney Opera House vehicle concourse (advance booking essential, call 02 9250 7185) B) Wilsons at Sydney Opera House (public car park, early arrival recommended).

Instalments incur a $40 fee per package, which will be spread equally over the 4 payments. If you wish to pay by instalments, your Subscription Form must be received by Friday 9 September, 2011 and must include two winter performances.

HEARING ASSISTANCE

Please note that instalment payments are only available for subscription packages.

Any additional tickets or donations will be charged in full with your first subscription instalment payment.

ADMISSION

CONCESSIONS PERFORMANCE STARTING TIMES Unless otherwise specified, evening performances commence at 7:30pm and Wednesday/Saturday matinees at 1:00pm.

Sunday matinees commence at 3:00pm.

SUBSCRIBER TICKET EXCHANGES All subscribers may exchange their tickets to any other performance in the 2012 season.

Subscribers may exchange their tickets from 14 November 2011. Exchanges are free up until 31 December 2011. Each subscription will come with 1 free exchange voucher for use during the 2012 season. Any additional exchanges will incur a small fee.

To exchange your tickets call (02) 9318 8200 and reserve seats to the opera(s) of your choice, and our Customer Service Representative will talk you through returning your original tickets and advise of any fees.

ADDITIONAL TICKET PRICES FOR SUBSCRIBERS As a subscriber, you can purchase additional single tickets to the 2012 season, and receive a 10% discount.

Additional single tickets can be purchased from 14 November 2011.

34

Concession pricing is available to • Full pensioners (Australian) • Full-time students (Australian) • Children aged 16 years and under When placing your booking you will need a photocopy of your Proof of Age, student ID or pensioner concession card, and be able to present this if requested at performances.

Concessions are not available on Saturday evenings. For children aged 16 years and under a special child subscription price of $55 per ticket is available for all matinee performances, and all Monday to Friday performances of The Magic Flute.

SURTITLE VIEWING A limited number of seats have restricted viewing of surtitles. Please indicate on your booking form when you require seats with a surtitle view.

GST All prices include GST where applicable.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

The Opera Theatre is equipped with an FM Radio system for patrons requiring hearing assistance. Receivers and headsets can be obtained free of charge from the cloakroom prior to the performance.

All ticket holders are bound by Opera Australia’s Terms and Conditions of Sale (page 42).

PERFORMANCE AND CAST DETAILS All details in this brochure are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change. Refer to www.opera-australia.org.au for full performance and cast details.

CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK The Opera Australia Customer Service Desk opens one hour before each performance to assist with ticket and subscription enquiries.

LOST TICKETS Replacement tickets can be arranged by calling (02) 9318 8200 prior to the performance and can only be collected from the Opera Australia Customer Service Desk at the Sydney Opera House immediately prior to the performance. Proof of ID will need to be shown.

FREE OPERA TALKS Free pre-performance opera talks are presented throughout the year and begin 45 minutes before the performance.

Please refer to the calendar (pages 46-47) for dates.

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

2

3

4

5

7

7

8

9

11

21 Turandot 28

14 Flute 21 Flute 28

15

18 Flute 25 Flute

12 Flute 19

14

16 Flute * # 23 Flute * # 30 Turandot #

10 Flute 17 Turandot 24 Turandot 31 Flute #

6 Flute 13

29

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1

2 Flute # 9 Flute * 16 Figaro # 23 Flute *

3

4 Turandot # 11 Flute # 18 Figaro # 25 Turandot

5

10 Figaro 17 Flute * 24 Figaro

4 Flute 11 Turandot 18 Turandot # 25 Flute #

20

26

27 Flute

22

FEBRUARY

6 Figaro 13 Flute # 20 27 Flute

7 Flute * 14 Turandot 21 Flute * 28 Figaro #

8 Turandot # 15 Flute * 22 Turandot 29 Turandot

12

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

12 Turandot * 19 Turandot

7 Turandot # 14 Figaro 21 Flute *

2 Figaro * 9 Figaro * 16 Turandot 23 Flute

3 Turandot * 10 Turandot * 17 Figaro # 24 Così #

3 Flute * 10 Così # 17 Così 24 Figaro Harbour

4

6 Figaro 13 Flute 20 Così #

1 Flute * 8 Così 15 Così 22 Così

26 Così #

27 Harbour

28 Harbour

29 Harbour

30 Harbour

31

31 Harbour

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

7 Harbour 14 Harbour

1 Harbour (eve) 8 Harbour (eve) 15 Harbour (eve)

19 26

MARCH

5

11 18 25

APRIL

2 9

3 Harbour 10 Harbour

4 Harbour 11 Harbour

5 Harbour 12 Harbour

6

7

13 Harbour

14

MAT = Matinee EVE = Evening Flute = The Magic Flute Figaro = The Marriage of Figaro Così = Così fan tutte Stadt = Die tote Stadt Pearl = The Pearlfishers Butterfly = Madama Butterfly * The best seats for Choose Your Own subscriptions are on these dates

Harbour = Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour Lucia = Lucia di Lammermoor # Free opera talk prior to the performance

Please indicate on your booking form if you require a wheelchair space and access.

Call Opera Australia Ticket Services on (02) 9318 8200 for more details.

Opening night

Final performance

35

2012 Sydney Winter Season

Support for Opera Australia Opera Australia relies heavily on the private sector to support its artistic endeavours. Corporate sponsorship and private patronage are crucial to the vitality of the Company. It allows us to continue to fulďŹ l the aspirations of Australian artists and to excite the imagination of Opera Australia audiences. It is private support of Opera Australia which enables us to maintain a high level of activity and quality of performance.

We salute the corporate citizenship of our sponsors and the leadership role taken by the members of our Patron Program.

For more information please contact Amanda Michetti on (02) 9318 8241 or email amanda.michetti@opera-australia.org.au

JUNE Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

25

26

27

28

29

30

30 Stadt

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

2

4 Pearl 11 Pearl # 18 Stadt # 25 Pearl #

5

6

12

13 Stadt # 20

7 Pearl 14 21 Aida * # 28 Pearl

7 Stadt # 14 Pearl # 21 Pearl 28 Aida

8

9 Pearl 16 Stadt # 23 Pearl * 30 Pearl *

3 Stadt 10 Stadt 17 Aida 24 Aida 31 Aida

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1

2

3

5

8

9

10

4 Aida 11

27

15 22 29

GOLD PARTNERS

19 Pearl 26

HERO PARTNERS

JULY

AUGUST

20

7 14 South Pacific 21 South Pacific

27

28 South Pacific

Monday

Tuesday

16 South Pacific

17 South Pacific

18 South Pacific

23 South Pacific

24 South Pacific

25 South Pacific

25 South Pacific

South Pacific (mat)

29

30 South Pacific *

31 South Pacific *

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

6 South Pacific *

7 South Pacific *

1 South Pacific 8 South Pacific

1 South Pacific 8 South Pacific

14 Aida # 21

15

15

16

22

23

28 Lucia

29 Butterfly

22 Aida 29 Aida

15

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

22

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve) South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

12 South Pacific (mat)

19 South Pacific (mat)

SILVER PARTNERS

6 Aida # 13

4 Pearl # 11 South Pacific 18 South Pacific

26

SEPTEMBER

4 South Pacific *

5

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

events lighting & AV

9

MAJOR SPONSORS

3

exhibition

2 South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (mat)

10

11

12

13

17

18

24

25 Butterfly

19 Aida 26

20 Butterfly 27

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1 Butterfly # 8

3 Lucia # 10 Aida # 17 Butterfly 24 Lucia # 31 Salome

4

5 Aida # 12 Salome 19 Salome 26 Salome #

6 Butterfly 13 Aida 20 Butterfly *# 27 Lucia

6 Lucia 13 Butterfly 20 Lucia # 27 Butterfly #

7

22 Butterfly # 29 Salome #

2 Aida 9 Lucia # 16 Salome # 23 Salome 30 Butterfly

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

30

15

11 Lucia 18 Lucia 25

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

OCTOBER

14 21 28

36

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1 Butterfly

2 Lucia #

3 Salome #

3

4

PERFORMANCE PARTNERS

NOVEMBER Thursday

36

Opera Australia is assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

Opera Australia is assisted by the NSW Government through Arts NSW. Opera Australia is supported by the Victorian Government through Arts Victoria.

Performances feature the Opera Australia Chorus and the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra.

2012 Sydney Winter Season

Support for Opera Australia Opera Australia relies heavily on the private sector to support its artistic endeavours. Corporate sponsorship and private patronage are crucial to the vitality of the Company. It allows us to continue to fulďŹ l the aspirations of Australian artists and to excite the imagination of Opera Australia audiences. It is private support of Opera Australia which enables us to maintain a high level of activity and quality of performance.

We salute the corporate citizenship of our sponsors and the leadership role taken by the members of our Patron Program.

For more information please contact Amanda Michetti on (02) 9318 8241 or email amanda.michetti@opera-australia.org.au

JUNE Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

25

26

27

28

29

30

30 Stadt

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

2

4 Pearl 11 Pearl # 18 Stadt # 25 Pearl #

5

6

12

13 Stadt # 20

7 Pearl 14 21 Aida * # 28 Pearl

7 Stadt # 14 Pearl # 21 Pearl 28 Aida

8

9 Pearl 16 Stadt # 23 Pearl * 30 Pearl *

3 Stadt 10 Stadt 17 Aida 24 Aida 31 Aida

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1

2

3

5

8

9

10

4 Aida 11

27

15 22 29

GOLD PARTNERS

19 Pearl 26

HERO PARTNERS

JULY

AUGUST

20

7 14 South Pacific 21 South Pacific

27

28 South Pacific

Monday

Tuesday

16 South Pacific

17 South Pacific

18 South Pacific

23 South Pacific

24 South Pacific

25 South Pacific

25 South Pacific

South Pacific (mat)

29

30 South Pacific *

31 South Pacific *

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

6 South Pacific *

7 South Pacific *

1 South Pacific 8 South Pacific

1 South Pacific 8 South Pacific

14 Aida # 21

15

15

16

22

23

28 Lucia

29 Butterfly

22 Aida 29 Aida

15

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

22

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve) South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

12 South Pacific (mat)

19 South Pacific (mat)

SILVER PARTNERS

6 Aida # 13

4 Pearl # 11 South Pacific 18 South Pacific

26

SEPTEMBER

4 South Pacific *

5

South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (eve)

events lighting & AV

9

MAJOR SPONSORS

3

exhibition

2 South Pacific (mat) South Pacific (mat)

10

11

12

13

17

18

24

25 Butterfly

19 Aida 26

20 Butterfly 27

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1 Butterfly # 8

3 Lucia # 10 Aida # 17 Butterfly 24 Lucia # 31 Salome

4

5 Aida # 12 Salome 19 Salome 26 Salome #

6 Butterfly 13 Aida 20 Butterfly *# 27 Lucia

6 Lucia 13 Butterfly 20 Lucia # 27 Butterfly #

7

22 Butterfly # 29 Salome #

2 Aida 9 Lucia # 16 Salome # 23 Salome 30 Butterfly

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

30

15

11 Lucia 18 Lucia 25

GOVERNMENT PARTNERS

OCTOBER

14 21 28

36

Friday

Saturday MAT

Saturday EVE

Sunday

1 Butterfly

2 Lucia #

3 Salome #

3

4

PERFORMANCE PARTNERS

NOVEMBER Thursday

36

Opera Australia is assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body.

Opera Australia is assisted by the NSW Government through Arts NSW. Opera Australia is supported by the Victorian Government through Arts Victoria.

Performances feature the Opera Australia Chorus and the Australian Opera and Ballet Orchestra.