DIFFERENT DREAMS SE A S ON
2016
DIFFERENT DREAMS If a dream is an altered reality then opera is one of the grandest dreams of all. Theatre, music, poetry and beautiful singing bend time and space to reflect the human condition in the most moving, thrilling and unforgettable way. At Victorian Opera, we dream differently about opera. Opera with circus. Opera in 3D. A new opera from old music. A new musical. An opera that travels and is recreated by different communities. Opera for the darkest night. An opera reimagined for children and performed by aspiring singers. A grand opera where bright young talent and remarkable singers perform side by side. Our wish is to reimagine a bold future and present opera without boundaries. To be part of this future and share our different dreams, join us in 2016.
SE A S ON 2016
CONTENTS 4 Our Story 5 Our Worlds 6 Behind the Vision 8 Voyage to the Moon 12 Banquet of Secrets 16 Lucia di Lammermoor 20 Cinderella
24 The Pied Piper 28 Laughter and Tears 32 Four Saints in Three Acts 36 The Darkest Night 38 Find Your Voice 40 Bright Young Things 42 Dream a Little Closer
44 A Secret Banquet 46 Your Golden Ticket 5 3 Our Partners 54 Calendar 55 Membership Form
OUR
STORY
In just ten years, over 300,000 audience members have experienced a performance with Victorian Opera – over 20,000 of those attending regional performances. During our short history, we have created 13 new Australian works and collaborated with some of Australia’s leading companies, venues and learning institutions. We employ hundreds across the theatre industry and recruit some of the finest singers from Australia and around the world. We are committed to the accessibility of opera through tactile tours, audio described and relaxed performances. We have inspired over 500 young singers through our youth opera program and developed over 30 emerging artists. Building a future for opera is possible with the kind assistance of the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria and the Department of Education and Training, The Robert Salzer Foundation and The Helen Macpherson Smith Trust. This is alongside the continued support of Sponsors and Partners (page 53), generous Supporters and Patrons (page 42) including our Artistic Director’s Circle and New Work and Education Syndicates, and our dedicated Board and staff. Together with the commitment of our loyal members (page 46) and audiences, we are creating a state opera company to be proud of. Welcome to Victorian Opera.
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OUR
WORLDS A W O R L D O F I N S P I R AT I O N Looking to escape into a world of captivating storytelling through singing? Feelings of lust, jealousy and revenge unravel a group of theatre performers in Laughter and Tears, and memories of life and food are shared by four friends in Banquet of Secrets. A knight makes a Voyage to the Moon in a story of love, loss and hope and a tragic tale of star-crossed lovers unfolds in Lucia di Lammermoor.
A WORL D OF BE AU T Y Passionate about breathtaking artistry and exceptional quality? Lucia di Lammermoor features the return of superstar soprano Jessica Pratt. Legendary playwright Michael Gow and star Emma Matthews reimagine the beauty of the baroque in Voyage to the Moon. Rosario La Spina and Emma Pearson transform I Pagliacci in Laughter and Tears and in Banquet of Secrets, the stars of Sweeney Todd return for a musical devised by Steve Vizard and Paul Grabowsky.
A WORL D OF ADVEN T URE Love new, unusual and different? Four Saints in Three Acts combines a surreal 20th century work with cutting edge 3D digital scenery and The Darkest Night is a unique event streamed live on the eve of Winter Solstice. Banquet of Secrets is a brand new Australian musical and Laughter and Tears mixes traditional opera with circus.
A WORL D OF MAGIC Eager to inspire curious young minds in the enchanting world of opera? Two fairytale operas, one a classic and one reimagined, Cinderella and The Pied Piper are the perfect introduction, while a quirky opera about Four Saints in Three Acts will invite the next generation of youth opera stars to take centre stage.
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BEHIND THE VISION and Calvin Bowman. The work invokes the moon – via an episode from Orlando Furioso of Ariosto, involving a search for a cure to Orlando’s madness. This particular journey tours nationally and we are proud to have Victorian Opera’s work seen in Brisbane, Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide and Perth as well as Melbourne, thanks to our collaboration with Musica Viva. This production will be a showcase for the great Australian soprano Emma Matthews. Jessica Pratt returns for Lucia di Lammermoor, another stage in the company’s exploration of bel canto repertoire. Jessica is the third Australian after Melba and Sutherland to sing Lucia at La Scala. She brings immense authority to this role in the context of a traditional production reimagined by Cameron Menzies.
2016, a year of different dreams, new operas from old music, new work on traditional themes, gastronomic subjects, evenings of musical nonsense assisted by cutting edge technologies, blood, murder, laughter and tears: all the ingredients of the actual realities that make our art form – with its unique synthetic power, a grand and rich public dream.
Madness of a more zany variety is to be found in the fanciful Four Saints in Three Acts of Virgil Thomson and Gertrude Stein. A surreal text of freely imagined images, dream-like in their random associations are the scaffolding for Thomson’s waltzes, chorales and marches and are simultaneously realised in cutting edge 3D by Dr Kim Vincs and her team from Deakin Motion.Lab.
The need to dream is basic to our nature. The publicly manifested dream embodies not only our urge to escape and transcend reality but also our questions about the very nature of that reality itself – of what is imagined and what is real in the experience and recollection of past events.
Our performances at the Malthouse will be followed by a banquet on stage with recipes from the Alice B. Toklas cookbook, in a menu designed and supervised by doyenne
Our first opera for the year, Voyage to the Moon, is a post-modern baroque pasticcio created by Michael Gow, the late Alan Curtis _ 6
of a “dream come true” with an ageless appeal for young audiences.
chef, Gay Bilson. Both Gertrude and Alice will make a post-show appearance and be questioned on both domestic and cultural matters (courtesy of Robyn Archer and Merlyn Quaife).
Long winter nights are perfect for dreams. The Darkest Night takes place on the eve of Winter Solstice, a perfect occasion for operatic dreaming with subjects evoking both darkness and light. Dreams often have a dualism as does our final fantastic offering, Laughter and Tears. This collaboration with Circus Oz reimagines I Pagliacci in the traditions of Commedia dell’Arte. In a newly formulated first half, the stock characters Arlecchino, Colombina, Pantalone, Brighella, Capitano and Zanni figures enact a typical Comedia scenario of duping an older lover/ guardian and elopement of two young lovers. This lively story is told via a series of circus based “lazzi” or comic sketches set to a sequence of excerpts from the madrigal comedies of Vecchi and Banchieri and a selection of arie antiche, chosen for their resonance of plot and situation. The characters of Laughter morph into the characters of Tears – preparing for I Pagliacci itself and for the “play within a play” that is part of the rich fabric of this masterpiece.
This notion of a meal as both fantasy and sustenance also animates the new musical by Paul Grabowsky and Steve Vizard, Banquet of Secrets, a lyrical exploration of a dinner with friends. Placed in the context of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, this fine new work from a uniquely Melbourne collaboration will be delightfully thought provoking in its bittersweet ironic yet deeply compassionate examination of relationships, love and the mysterious nature of the flux of time and lived experience. Victorian Opera continues its regional engagement, so generously supported by the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust with my newly composed piece The Pied Piper. The schoolchildren will be the rats alongside older children and adults as the citizens of Hamelin. Our developing artists will contribute in other roles. This exercise will offer our regional Hubs; Warragul, Wodonga, Mildura, Shepparton and Bendigo a piece especially made for them which contributes to a sense of community and creates social capital. In an extension of our commitment to younger audiences, we present Cinderella – a version of Massenet’s Cendrillon, a delightful story
A year of bold and different dreams, complex interconnecting threads, great singing and new focus on the grand traditions. Join us. Richard Mills Artistic Director _ 7
L E G E N D A RY P L AY W R I G H T MICHAEL G OW AND S TAR E M M A M AT T H E W S R E I M A G I N E T HE BE AU T Y OF T HE B ARO QUE.
A K N I G H T T R AV E L S T O T H E MO ON IN T HIS BR AND NE W O P E R AT I C W O R K O F L O V E , LOS S AND HOP E.
Legendary Australian playwright and director Michael Gow together with celebrated composer Calvin Bowman and renowned musicologist, the late Alan Curtis reimagine the epic 16th century poem Orlando Furioso. Part new work,part baroque pastiche, Voyage to the Moon will feature old and new text with existing 16th and 17th century music performed by a period ensemble.
A 16th century knight Astolfo travels to the heavens, his destination, the Moon. His quest, to find a cure for his friend, the great warrior Orlando who has fallen into a deep madness. The moon is, as Astolfo discovers, home to many lost things including Orlando’s sanity. But before he can save his friend, he must first convince the all-powerful Selena, Guardian of the Moon, that Orlando is indeed worth saving.
One of the greatest Australian sopranos, Emma Matthews assumes the role of the all-powerful Selena, Guardian of the Moon while leading Australian mezzo Sally-Anne Russell takes on the role of the mad Orlando. Former Victorian Opera emerging artist, Jeremy Kleeman is the loyal knight, Astolfo, with Victorian Opera’s own Head of Music Phoebe Briggs conducting from the harpsichord.
Presented in partnership with Musica Viva, Voyage to the Moon is a story told with old music, new words and beautiful singing. A semi-staged performance with cast in costume, this exciting collaboration will be performed within the remarkable acoustic intimacy of the Melbourne Recital Centre, before travelling to Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra, Perth and Adelaide.
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V O YA G E T O T H E M O O N Written and Directed by Michael Gow Music realised by Calvin Bowman and the late Alan Curtis Design concept by Matt Scott and Christina Smith Cast Selena Emma Matthews Orlando Sally-Anne Russell Astolfo Jeremy Kleeman Musicians Musical Director/Harpsichord Phoebe Briggs Oboe Emma Black Violins Rachael Beesley, ZoĂŤ Black Viola Simon Oswell Cello Molly Kadarauch Double Bass Kirsty McCahon
Venue Melbourne Recital Centre, Elisabeth Murdoch Hall Dates Monday 15 February 7:30pm Tuesday 16 February 7:30pm* Thursday 18 February 7:30pm* Friday 19 February 7:30pm Prices Members Standard
$50 - $125 $60 - $155
Voyage to the Moon is a collaboration between Musica Viva and Victorian Opera, in partnership with the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the History of Emotions. Performance program led by Professor Jane Davidson in collaboration with Professor Peter Tregear, Dr Alan Maddox and Donald Nicolson. *Performances available to Musica Viva subscribers
A BR AND NE W AUS T R AL IAN M U S I C A L F E AT U R I N G T H E S TAR S OF VIC T ORIAN O P E R A ’S S W E E N E Y T O D D.
A FO OD AND MUSIC AL M A R R I A G E M A D E I N H E AV E N . Melbourne is a city that loves its fine dining and adores its musicals. In March 2016, Victorian Opera in partnership with Arts Centre Melbourne brings together these two popular pastimes in a unique cultural event as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival – a musical about friendship and the joy and power of food. (Celebrity Chef Philippe Mouchel has designed the on-stage menu for the Banquet).
Following the conclusion of their critically acclaimed Sondheim trilogy, Victorian Opera continue their love of musical theatre with a brand new work, Banquet of Secrets. Devised by the multi award-winning team of Australian TV icon Steve Vizard and legendary jazz musician Paul Grabowsky, the work will be directed by Roger Hodgman, the man behind Victorian Opera’s Nixon in China.
In Banquet of Secrets, four old friends gather at their favourite restaurant for their annual dinner. During the course of their elaborate meal one of them asks “Is it possible friends as old as we, might have secrets hidden from each other, from the world?”. They each agree to share their deepest secret over the course of the meal. As secrets are spilled and food is consumed, old memories unexpectedly find new voice in the company of friends.
Following her ‘revelatory’ performance as Mrs Lovett in Victorian Opera’s box office hit Sweeney Todd, Antoinette Halloran returns to the Playhouse with an extraordinary cast. Joining her are Victorian Opera favourites Dimity Shepherd, David Rogers-Smith and Kanen Breen.
Support New Work Developing, workshopping and presenting new Australian work is critical to building a future for opera and musical theatre. The New Work Syndicate helps preserve this exciting role and offers its members a unique insight into the creative process. Find out more on page 42. _ 13
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B ANQUE T OF SECRE TS Book, lyrics and original story by Steve Vizard
Venue Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse
Score composed by Paul Grabowsky
Dates Tuesday 1 March 7:30pm Wednesday 2 March 7:30pm Thursday 3 March 7:30pm Friday 4 March 7:30pm Saturday 5 March 1:00pm Saturday 5 March 7:30pm
Director Roger Hodgman Set and Visual Design Matt Scott and Christina Smith Cast Antoinette Halloran Dimity Shepherd Kanen Breen David Rogers-Smith Ensemble led by Paul Grabowsky from the keyboard
Banquet of Secrets is presented in partnership with Arts Centre Melbourne as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival. Supported by Victorian Opera New Work Syndicate and The Robert Salzer Foundation.
AUS T R AL IAN S UP ER S TAR S O P R A N O J E S S I C A P R AT T F IN A L LY B RIN G S HE R C AREER - DEFINING LU CIA HO ME.
A HAUN T ING TAL E OF S TAR - CRO S SED LOVER S AND AN UNF ORGE T TABL E T H E AT R I C A L E X P E R I E N C E . Lucia is in love with Edgardo, last of the Ravenswood clan and sworn enemy to the Lammermoor family. Her brother Enrico plans to force her into a marriage of convenience that will secure his family’s flagging fortunes. Lucia’s decision to continuously defy her wicked brother sets in motion a wedding that will have tragic and bloody consequences.
Superstar soprano Jessica Pratt enchanted Australian audiences with ‘her voice of liquid gold’ in La traviata (2014) and her ‘breathtaking brilliance’ in I Puritani (2015). No stranger to walking the virtuosic tightrope of bel canto singing, she returns to the role which launched her to stardom – and took her to the world famous opera house of La Scala – Lucia di Lammermoor.
Culminating in one of opera’s most famous mad scenes and the show-stopping aria ‘ll dolce suono’, this tragic tale of star-crossed lovers will be an unforgettable theatrical experience. Complete with sweeping sets and lavish costumes, this beautifully atmospheric production from West Australian Opera is reimagined by director Cameron Menzies in Melbourne’s iconic Her Majesty’s Theatre.
Starring alongside Jessica Pratt is exciting new talent, tenor Carlos E. Bárcenas. As a former Victorian Opera emerging artist, he has performed alongside Jessica in both La traviata and I Puritani and makes his debut in a major role as Edgardo, Lucia’s lover. Together with a stellar cast under conductor Richard Mills, they breathe new life into this bel canto masterpiece.
Join the Artistic Director’s Circle Enabling extraordinary artists and developing local talent to create the transformative experience of live opera is made possible through the Artistic Director’s Circle, a dedicated group of patrons that directly support Artistic Director Richard Mills’ unique vision. Find out more on page 42. _ 17
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LU CIA DI L A MMER MO OR Composer Gaetano Donizetti Librettist Salvadore Cammarano Conductor Richard Mills Director Cameron Menzies Cast Lucia Jessica Pratt Enrico José Carbó Edgardo Carlos E. Bárcenas Arturo Michael Petruccelli Raimondo Jud Arthur Alisa Tania Ferris Victorian Opera Chorus Orchestra Victoria
Venue Her Majesty’s Theatre Dates Tuesday 12 April 7:30pm Thursday 14 April 7:30pm Saturday 16 April 7:30pm Tuesday 19 April 7:30pm Thursday 21 April 7:30pm Sung in Italian with English surtitles Prices Members Standard
$50 - $155 $60 - $185
Presented in association with West Australian Opera
A C L A S S I C FA I RY T A L E T O L D T HROU GH MUSIC AND S ONG IN AN ENCHAN T ING NE W P RODU C T ION .
A M A G I C A L E D U C AT I O N TO INSP IRE C URIOUS YOUNG MINDS. Victorian Opera’s sell-out family performances have also captivated thousands of primary school students and teachers around Victoria. This is because opera can engage curious young minds through the unique exploration of theatre, music, language and singing. The popularity of these fairytale operas is testament to that.
A young girl Cendrillon (Cinderella) is treated like a servant by her selfish stepmother and two stepsisters. When The Fairy Godmother magically transforms Cendrillon, she secretly attends the Royal Ball but leaves her glass slipper behind. The prince, desperate to find this mysterious beauty, searches the kingdom.
As part of our commitment to inspiring the next generation to fully appreciate the language of opera, the work will be performed in its original French with surtitles in English to help children understand the drama on stage. Cinderella is Victorian Opera’s fourth family opera presentation with Arts Centre Melbourne following Puss in Boots (2013), Hansel and Gretel (2014) and Alice’s Adventures in Operaland (2015).
With its whimsical nature and beautiful music, Cinderella is a perfect introduction for children to the spellbinding world of opera. Based on the much loved fairytale, this rare 19th century work will be presented as a specially reduced one hour version. Victorian Opera’s talented developing artists bring to life the enchanted world of Cendrillon complete with gorgeous costumes and a chamber orchestra.
Family Memberships Looking to introduce curious young minds to the magic of theatre and live music at affordable prices? With a Family Membership, you can invite children into the wonderful world of Cinderella and The Pied Piper from just $110. Discover more about a Family Membership on page 48. _ 21
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CINDEREL L A Composer Jules Massenet Librettist Henri Cain Director Libby Hill Costume Design Isaac Lummis Cast Featuring Victorian Opera’s developing artists Victorian Opera Chamber Orchestra
Venue Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Dates Saturday 16 July 11:00am Saturday 16 July 2:00pm Saturday 16 July 5:00pm Sung in French with English surtitles Schools Performance dates and times to be announced Prices Members Standard
$25 - $40 $30 - $45
Presented in association with Arts Centre Melbourne
A M Y S T ERIOUS FEL LOW IN RED AND YEL LOW HEL P S A T O W N O V E R R U N B Y R AT S B Y U S I N G H I S M A G I C A L C H A R M.
C O MMUNI T IE S AROUND REGION AL VIC TORIA WIL L H E L P R E C R E AT E T H E P I E D P IP ER IN T HEIR TOWN .
The town of Hamelin is plagued by rats. The rodents have been eating cheeses out of vats and making nests in men’s Sunday hats. The desperate Mayor turns to a mysterious fellow in a gypsy coat of red and yellow, who with his magical charm rids the town of vermin. But, when the greedy Mayor refuses to pay, the townspeople are taught a lesson they will never forget.
A magical music-maker coming to town seemed the perfect tale to transform into a community created work to travel around Victoria. The Pied Piper builds on the success of previous touring projects including The Magic Pudding – the opera (2013) and Remembrance (2015) and continues Victorian Opera’s commitment to inspiring all Victorians in the magic of opera.
Based on The Pied Piper of Hamelin and Robert Browning’s classic poem, this enchanting new family production with a surprise happy ending is told through song in traditional operatic format written by Artistic Director Richard Mills. Adults and children from the community perform alongside Victorian Opera’s developing artists and a chamber orchestra to tell this classic story with new perspectives.
In a regional tour supported by the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust, The Pied Piper invites regional towns to make this magical opera their own. Adults and children in each town will sing various roles including citizens, schoolchildren and, of course, rats. A unique musical event, based on community involvement and the joy of singing.
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T HE P IED P IP ER Composer Richard Mills
Venue Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse
Cast Featuring Victorian Opera’s developing artists
Dates Thursday 28 July 6:30pm Friday 29 July 6:30pm Saturday 30 July 4:00pm
Victorian Opera Chamber Orchestra
Prices Members Standard
$20 - $35 $25 - $40
A SP EL L BINDING MIX OF CIRC US AND SINGING, F E AT URIN G C I R C U S O Z .
E X T R A O R D I N A RY A R T I S T S SHINING A NE W L IGH T ON T HE P OWER OF I PAGL I AC C I .
In Laughter, the comical adventures of Arlecchino, Colombina, Pantalone and other colourful characters from the Comedia dell’Arte unfold through a spellbinding mix of acrobatics and arie antiche (ancient Italian songs). Performers from Circus Oz join an ensemble of breathtaking singers to create a dream-like vision of 17th and 18th century improvisational theatre.
The dramatic intensity of I Pagliacci is indisputable. Canio’s show-stopping aria ‘Vesti la giubba’ (‘Put on the costume’) has been immortalised by some of the world’s greatest singers. Now formidable Australian tenor Rosario La Spina gives new voice to Canio following his critically acclaimed performance as Pollione in Victorian Opera’s Norma (2014).
In Tears, the lives of the performers from Laughter unravel through a dramatic retelling of Leoncavallo’s one act opera I Pagliacci. Canio, Tonio and Nedda are part of a travelling theatre troupe. Canio is fiercely protective of his beautiful wife Nedda. Tonio secretly desires Nedda but discovers she is having an affair. When Canio learns of Nedda’s infidelity, his burning jealousy sends him down a path of no return.
Emma Pearson, an Australian soprano taking Germany by storm, returns home to play the restless Nedda, while Victorian Opera’s own Richard Mills conducts. Director Emil Wolk, fresh from consulting on the Metropolitan Opera’s recent production of I Pagliacci, directs this unique double bill of circus and opera that redefines Leoncavallo’s captivating tragedy.
Opera at the Palais Victorian Opera returns to The Palais following The Flying Dutchman (2015) as part of its commitment to bringing the breathtaking experience of large scale opera to an iconic heritage theatre with incredible acoustics. _ 29
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L AU GH T ER AND T E ARS L AUGHTER Featuring Arie Antiche
Venue Palais Theatre
Composers Vecchi, Banchieri and various TEARS Featuring I Pagliacci
Dates Saturday 13 August 7:30pm Tuesday 16 August 7:30pm Thursday 18 August 7:30pm
Composer Ruggero Leoncavallo
Sung in Italian with English surtitles
Librettist Ruggero Leoncavallo
Prices Members Standard
Conductor Richard Mills Director Emil Wolk Cast Canio Rosario La Spina Nedda Emma Pearson Tonio James Clayton Beppe Michael Petruccelli Silvio Fabio Capitanucci Performers from Circus Oz Victorian Opera Chorus Orchestra Victoria
$50 - $110 $55 - $130
Laughter and Tears is a co-production of Victorian Opera and State Opera of South Australia, presented in association with Circus Oz
C H A R M I N G LY I R R AT I O N A L O P E R A F E AT U R I N G TAL EN T ED YOUNG ART IS T S A N D Q U I R K Y 3 D S C E N E RY.
A U N I Q U E T H E AT R I C A L DINING E X P ERIENCE, A R ARE DINNER WI T H T HE S AIN T S.
After a choral introduction to thirty saints, a series of tableaux featuring St Teresa II unfolds on the steps of a Cathedral. At a garden party near Barcelona there is a dance, a game and a heavenly vision through a telescope. In a monastery garden, saints discuss monastic life and see a vision. In heaven, the saints remember their earthly life.
In what promises to be one of the most talked about experiences of the 2016 season, Victorian Opera will present a unique theatrical dinner following the performance of Four Saints in Three Acts on the stage of the Malthouse Theatre. In a separate ticketed event, Dinner with the Saints, guests will be treated to a menu from celebrity chef Gay Bilson inspired by the Alice B. Toklas cookbook.
Composed by Virgil Thomson and with zany joyous poetry by celebrated writer Gertrude Stein, Four Saints in Three Acts makes for charmingly irrational theatre. Inspired by jazz, gospel and folk music this surreal work about 16th century Spanish saints directed by Nancy Black will feature youth opera performers, a youth orchestra conducted by Fabian Russell (Nixon in China) and 3D scenic imagery (The Flying Dutchman) devised by Deakin Motion.Lab under the direction of Dr Kim Vincs.
Then, in a nod to the legendary salon parties hosted by Gertrude Stein and her muse, cook and lover Alice B. Toklas, guests will be treated to a ‘visitation’ from the luminary couple, with Alice B. Toklas brought to life by distinguished soprano Merlyn Quaife and Gertrude Stein played by National treasure and singer, the legendary Robyn Archer.
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FOUR S AIN T S IN T HREE AC T S Composer Virgil Thomson Librettist Gertrude Stein Director Nancy Black Conductor Fabian Russell Digital Scenography Deakin Motion.Lab* under the direction of Dr Kim Vincs Cast Victorian Opera Youth Opera Victorian Opera Youth Orchestra
Venue Merlyn, The Coopers Malthouse Dates Friday 30 September 7:30pm Saturday 1 October 7:30pm Prices Members Standard
$30 - $45 $35 - $50
Dinner with the Saints With menu by Gay Bilson and appearances from Robyn Archer as Gertrude Stein and Merlyn Quaife as Alice B. Toklas Members Standard
$150 $170
Presented in partnership with the Deakin Motion.Lab and supported by the Australian Research Council* *With research supported by the Australian Research Council’s Linkage Projects Funding Scheme (project number LP140100742)
THE DARKEST NIGHT _ 36
T H E D A R K E S T O P E R AT I C MOMENTS AND OUR BRIGHTEST TAL EN T S IN A UNIQ UE L I VE S T R E A M I N G E V E N T.
SHINING A L IGH T ON S US TAIN ABIL I T Y T HROU GH RE SP ONSIBL E P R AC T ICE.
Winter Solstice is marked around the world through gatherings, rituals and festivals. Victorian Opera heralds the arrival of this astronomical event by live streaming an intimate recital on the eve of Winter Solstice, Monday 20 June. The company’s developing artists perform a captivating program inspired by the darkest and brightest moments of the human spirit.
The Darkest Night is an invitation to consider our impact in an ever-changing environment. Here at Victorian Opera, our staff are dedicated to ensuring a continued focus on sustainability, improving environmental performance and enabling socially responsible and creative solutions. As one example, in 2015, Victorian Opera will be installing solar panels to its home to support its power needs and supply electricity back into the power grid.
The Darkest Night is an important focus on sustaining the art form of opera, both through technology – sharing the excitement and beauty of live opera through a digital platform, and artist development – showcasing some of the company’s exciting young performers. As part of the interactive nature of the event, audience members will also have an opportunity to interact online with the performers.
In opera, re-using and re-purposing existing sets, props and costumes is a creative and sustainable solution. Another way is through collaboration. Sharing resources with a number of different performing arts companies enables Victorian Opera to create higher quality and longer lasting productions. In 2016 our collaborations include Voyage to the Moon, Banquet of Secrets, Lucia di Lammermoor and Laughter and Tears.
Exclusive Member Reward The Darkest Night is exclusively available online to Victorian Opera Members. By purchasing a 2016 Membership to Victorian Opera, you will be able to view this unique event on a variety of different digital platforms. You can find out more about memberships on page 48. _ 37
FIND YOUR VOICE _ 38
A N E D U C AT I O N P R O G R A M SHARING T HE J OY OF O P E R A A N D M U S I C T H E AT R E WI T H YOUNG P EOP L E.
Professional Development opportunities are provided throughout the year, through weekend workshops for teachers and industry professionals to develop and enhance their skills, build networks and gain valuable insight into the world of opera and theatre productions.
Victorian Opera’s School and Family Program features performances of Cinderella (page 20), discounted tickets to school groups, tailored educational resource materials for productions and ‘Introduction to Opera’ workshops (preceding a show) that allow teachers to bring opera into the classroom supported by the Department of Education and Training.
Creating accessible performances is a big part of Victorian Opera’s commitment to inspiring the community. In 2016, Victorian Opera will continue providing tactile tours and audio described performances for some of its major presentations and an annual relaxed performance designed for children with various learning abilities.
The company’s popular Youth Opera Program features training and performance opportunities for secondary school aged singers in VOYCE (Victorian Opera Youth Chorus Ensemble). Audition and performance opportunities are also available for young singers aged 15 - 25 as part of the Youth Opera Four Saints in Three Acts (page 32) and our VOyage Membership offers a $30 ticket program for those 30 years and under (page 48).
Touring opera is integral to the company’s commitment to creating opera for all Victorians. In 2016, both the community created opera The Pied Piper (page 24) and fairytale opera Cinderella (page 20) will travel to our regional hubs in Shepparton, Warragul, Wodonga, Bendigo and Mildura courtesy of the Helen Macpherson Smith Trust.
Contact Us For any further information on our Education, Access and Community programs please contact Education Officer Deborah Vanderwerp on (03) 9001 6413.
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BRIGHT YOUNG THINGS _ 40
DE VELOP ING NE W AUS T R AL IAN TAL EN T HEL P S B UIL D A F U T URE F O R O P E R A .
T HE P ROF E S SION AL DE V E LOP ME N T P RO G R A M I S A N E X C I T IN G NE W V I C T ORI A N O P E R A I N I T I AT I V E .
Since Victorian Opera’s beginning, the company has been committed to investing and nurturing young talent. In 2016, three graduates from our former Masters program with the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne will perform key roles in some of our major works. We are excited to present:
This program will offer elite-level training for opera singers and repetiteurs in a company with a history and reputation for developing exciting talent. For singers, this will include developing skills in acting, movement and stagecraft as well as the language and diction skills required for a professional career.
Voyage to the Moon Jeremy Kleeman as Astolfo
Performance opportunities for participants will include major roles in Cinderella, a version of Jules Massenet’s Cendrillon, participation in the Victorian Opera chorus in productions of Lucia di Lammermoor and Laughter and Tears, and an appearance in The Darkest Night in which singers will perform under the spotlight of a live streaming event.
Lucia di Lammermoor Carlos E. Bàrcenas as Edgardo Michael Petruccelli as Arturo Laughter and Tears Michael Petruccelli as Beppe in I Pagliacci
Expressions of interest for this program will be invited in September 2015.
Support New Talent By donating to the Education Syndicate, you can directly support the company’s commitment to nurturing aspiring performers and ensure they receive the best possible opportunities on and off stage. Find out more on page 42. _ 41
DREAM A LITTLE CLOSER _ 42
HEL P US B UIL D A F U T URE AND DIS C OVER T HE M AGIC BEHIND T HE C URTAIN .
T HERE ARE M ANY E X CI T ING WAY S T O S U P P O R T Y O U R S T AT E O P E R A C O M P A N Y.
As Victoria’s state opera company, we are firmly committed to sharing opera with all Victorians. Our vision is to present professional opera of the highest calibre, commission bold new Australian works, inspire our next generation of artists and ensure opera remains accessible to the wider community.
Supporting Victorian Opera ensures that your state opera company continues to deliver breathtaking opera and thrilling musical theatre all year round. Supporter Bronze Patron Silver Patron Gold Patron Platinum Patron Diamond Patron Leadership Circle
In 2016, we are inviting you to dream a little closer. If you share our love for beautiful singing and the transformative power of opera, come and help us build a future for this extraordinary art form and discover the magic behind the curtain.
Up to $499 $500+ $1,000+ $2,500+ $5,000+ $10,000+ $20,000+
Education Syndicate $5,000+ Directly support the company’s Education and Outreach work and inspire new audiences, aspiring performers, teachers and singers.
Become a Patron and enjoy access to private recitals and talks, special behind the scenes events, regular updates on the company’s activity and the opportunity to attend Opening Night functions.
New Work Syndicate $5,000+ Shape the future by supporting the development, workshopping and presentation of bold new Australian work. Artistic Director’s Circle $10,000+ Bring the vision of Artistic Director Richard Mills to life and develop an in-depth understanding of Victorian Opera’s work. If you are interested in becoming a Victorian Opera Patron, please call Catrionadh Dobson, Development Manager on (03) 9001 6405 or email on catrionadhd@victorianopera.com.au.
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A SECRET BANQUET _ 44
AN UNF ORGE T TABL E SECRE T B ANQ UE T TO INSP IRE YOUR E X E C U T I V E T E A M.
T A I L O R E D C O R P O R AT E PA R T NE R S HIP S T O AC HIE VE YOUR KE Y OBJEC T IVES.
With the world premiere of Banquet of Secrets approaching, Victorian Opera is looking for a dynamic brand, interested in supporting local innovation and seeking an unforgettable corporate event. Become a major sponsor for this new Australian musical, and you and your guests will be treated to an exclusive ‘secret banquet’.
Victorian Opera tailors corporate partnerships to best meet your company’s key marketing and strategic objectives including: raising your company’s profile with your target market, increasing brand awareness, connecting with new and existing clients, creating opportunities for networking and staff engagement, and adding value to the community in which your business operates.
Enjoy a sumptuous meal prepared by celebrity chef Stefano de Pieri, the spirited company of Steve Vizard and Paul Grabowsky, creators of this exciting new musical and Victorian Opera’s Artistic Director Richard Mills. Your company’s executive team will discover the secrets behind great collaboration, creative problem solving and innovative thinking whilst enjoying great produce, vintage wine and a few surprise performances.
Victorian Opera creates exclusive activities to leverage the partnership, ensuring your business can impress, delight and strengthen relationships with your most important stakeholders. Partnership leverage options include ‘Behind the Scenes’ tours, access to opening nights, opportunities to meet performers post-show and access to our artistic talent for end-of-year functions and bespoke events.
Contact Us Now To register your company’s interest for this unique event, or discuss how Victorian Opera can meet your company’s key objectives, contact Corporate Partnerships Manager Paul Shea at pauls@victorianopera.com.au. _ 45
YOUR GOLDEN TICKET _ 46
I N 2 0 1 6, W E A R E IN T RODU CING VIC T ORIAN OP ER A ME MBERSHIP S.
There are four levels of Full Membership: C-Reserve from $150 B-Reserve from $185 A-Reserve from $255 Premium from $360
Looking for pure escapism, breathtaking artistry or something unusual and memorable? A Victorian Opera 2016 Membership is for you.
MINI - ME MBERSHIP For people discovering the thrilling world of Victorian Opera for the first time or those looking to include Opera in a busy lifestyle, a Mini-Membership is an affordable way to see your two favourite performances and enjoy select member benefits.
F UL L ME MBERSHIP In 2016, all subscribers who purchase three or more performances become a Full Member. Your Membership is your golden ticket to experiencing unique opera all year round.
As a Mini-Member you receive the following benefits:
As a Full Member you will receive the
Priority 2 Seating Discount Tickets Discounts for Family and Friends Members Newsletter Access to The Darkest Night (page 48)
following benefits: Priority 1 Seating Discount Tickets Discounts for Family and Friends Ticket Exchange Option Members Newsletter Access to The Darkest Night (page 48) A special Members Event
To become a Mini-Member select two (2) performances from Banquet of Secrets, Lucia di Lammermoor and Laughter and Tears or Four Saints in Three Acts.
To become a Full Member select a minimum of three (3) performances. Select at least two (2) from Voyage to the Moon, Banquet of Secrets, Lucia di Lammermoor and Laughter and Tears.
There are four levels of Mini-Membership: C-Reserve from $100 B-Reserve from $120 A-Reserve from $160 Premium from $210
You can also add additional shows Four Saints in Three Acts, Cinderella or The Pied Piper to create a tailored Victorian Opera experience.
In 2016, our subscription packages are now part of a new membership program.
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FA M I LY M E M B E R S H I P
V O YA G E M E M B E R S H I P
Taking the family to Victorian Opera is an exciting and affordable experience.
Our VOyage community is a group of highly engaged and active opera and musical theatre goers aged 30 years and under.
Introduce children to the magic of opera with two family performances in July 2016 at Arts Centre Melbourne, designed to enchant curious young minds.
As a VOyage Member you receive the following benefits: Priority 2 Seating Exclusive $30 tickets $30 tickets for friends 30 years and under Members E-Newsletter Access to The Darkest Night (page 48) Access to one Exclusive Voyage event
As a Family Member you receive the following benefits: Priority 2 Seating Discount Tickets Discounts for Family and Friends Members E-Newsletter Access to The Darkest Night (page 48)
To become a VOyage Member select a minimum of two (2) performances from the following: Voyage to the Moon, Banquet of Secrets, Lucia di Lammermoor, Laughter and Tears and Four Saints in Three Acts.
To become a Family Member select The Pied Piper & Cinderella There are two levels of Family Membership:
There are three levels of VOyage Memberships. Book early to get the best available seating.
A-Reserve from $130 (for 1 Adult & 1 Child) B-Reserve from $110 (for 1 Adult & 1 Child) You can also tailor your own Family Membership with your preferred number of adults and children.
A, B and C-Reserve from $60 (for 2 performances). When booking your VOyage membership, select one of the following performances to access our exclusive VOyage events,
In 2016, our subscription packages are now part of a new membership program.
Lucia di Lammermoor Thursday 14 April Banquet of Secrets Thursday 3 March Laughter and Tears Thursday 18 August
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M E M B E R S H I P I N F O R M AT I O N
Ticket Exchange Full members can exchange their tickets to other dates and times across the season. Exchanges to your 2016 Membership season can be made after Monday 23 November 2015 by posting your tickets to Victorian Opera subscriptions, PO Box 7585, St Kilda Road, VIC 8004.
Beat the rush, secure preferential seating at discount prices, receive great benefits and become an important member of the Victorian Opera community. Please read this information before completing your membership form. Contact Information If you are purchasing memberships for more than one person, we require that you include the contact details of each person. This will enable us to provide the same level of customer service to each member and ensure they receive their member’s E-newsletter and other exclusive benefits.
Online victorianopera.com.au/membership
Discount Tickets As a member you will receive cheaper tickets to Victorian Opera’s 2016 season and you will be able to purchase additional discount tickets for your family and friends using your customer number that you receive with your tickets.
Key Dates Memberships on sale Thursday 20 August 2015.
Phone Arts Centre Melbourne 1300 822 849 Post Victorian Opera Memberships PO Box 7585, St Kilda Road, VIC 8004
Single tickets on sale Monday 23 November 2015. Victorian Opera supports green printing initiatives.
Easy Payments Purchase your membership and pay it in two equal instalments; Your first payment is due at time of application, the second is due in the week commencing Monday 30 November. Members using the part payment option will receive their tickets once they have paid their membership in full.
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VIC TORIAN OP ER A 2016
PARTNERS Victorian Opera is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Victorian Opera would also like to acknowledge, with great appreciation, the contribution of the partners listed on this page.
Government Partners
Foundation Partner
University Partner
Regional Partner
Supporting Partners
Markus Neilson Events
Education & Access Partners
Sylvia Fisher Fund
Gailey Lazarus Foundation
The Marian & E.H. Flack Trust
William Angliss Charitable Fund
Performance Partners
Technology Partner
For tailored business partnerships with Victorian Opera, please contact Paul Shea, Corporate Partnerships Manager on (03) 9001 6411 or pauls@victorianopera.com.au.
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VIC TORIAN OP ER A 2016
CALENDAR VOYAGE TO THE MOON
THE PIED PIPER
Monday 15 February 7:30pm Tuesday 16 February 7:30pm Thursday 18 February 7:30pm Friday 19 February 7:30pm
Thursday 28 July 6:30pm Friday 29 July 6:30pm Saturday 30 July 4:00pm Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Tickets $25 - $40 | 1300 182 183
Melbourne Recital Centre, Elisabeth Murdoch Hall Tickets $60 - $155 | (03) 9699 3333
L AUGHTER AND TEARS
BANQUET OF SECRETS
Saturday 13 August 7:30pm Tuesday 16 August 7:30pm Thursday 18 August 7:30pm
Tuesday 1 March 7:30pm Wednesday 2 March 7:30pm Thursday 3 March 7:30pm Friday 4 March 7:30pm Saturday 5 March 1:00pm Saturday 5 March 7:30pm
Palais Theatre, St Kilda Tickets $55 - $130 | Ticketmaster 136 100
FOUR SAINTS IN THREE ACTS
Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Tickets $55 - $120 | 1300 182 183
Friday 30 September 7:30pm Saturday 1 October 7:30pm
LUCIA DI LAMMERMOOR
Merlyn, The Coopers Malthouse Tickets $35 - $50 | (03) 9685 5111
Tuesday 12 April 7:30pm Thursday 14 April 7:30pm Saturday 16 April 7:30pm Tuesday 19 April 7:30pm Thursday 21 April 7:30pm
Single tickets available from Monday 23 November 2015. *Concessions available. Senior, 30 and Under, Student prices may apply. Transaction fees may apply.
Her Majesty’s Theatre Tickets $60 - $185 | Ticketek 1300 795 012
Information in Victorian Opera 2016 Season Brochure is correct at time of printing and may be subject to change in the future.
THE DARKEST NIGHT Monday 20 June 6:30pm
CINDERELLA Saturday 16 July 11:00am Saturday 16 July 2:00pm Saturday 16 July 5:00pm Arts Centre Melbourne, Playhouse Tickets $30 - $45 | 1300 182 183
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C ONNEC T WI T H US
victorianopera.com.au victorianopera.com.au/blog facebook.com/victorianopera
Horti Hall, 31 Victoria Street Melbourne VIC 3000 PO Box 524, Carlton South VIC 3053
twitter.com/victorianopera instagram.com/victorianopera
(03) 9001 6400 info@victorianopera.com.au
youtube.com/victorianoperapage
Mini
VOyage (DOB:)
/
/ /
A-Reserve
$100
$95
$90
Senior
Concession
$125
Concession
Full
$125
Senior
Family
Qty
$60
$70
$75
$100
$100
$80
$90
$95
$155
$155
$155
Lucia di Lammermoor
VOyage
Qty
Qty
Please tick if you are a VO Patron
$70
$80
$85
$110
$110
$110
Laughter and Tears
Qty
Amount
Please tick if they are a VO Patron
Concession (card no.)
Please tick if they are a renewing subscriber
4. SELECT YOUR PERFORMANCES AND MEMBERSHIP LEVEL (RESERVES) Voyage to Banquet Qty Qty the Moon of Secrets Premium Full $125 $100
/
Qty
Postcode Telephone (Mobile)
Last Name
Please tick if you are a renewing subscriber
Senior (card no.)
VOyage (DOB:)
Full
Senior (card no.)
Full
Full
Co-member details:
Your details:
3. MEMBERSHIP DETAILS
Victorian Opera 2016 Memberships
Qty
Facsimile
Telephone (Evening)
Address
Telephone (Day)
2. SELECT YOUR MEMBERSHIP TYPE
Suburb
First Name
Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms / Other
Postcode Telephone (Mobile)
Last Name
Concession (card no.)
OTHER MEMBERS PERSONAL DETAILS (CO-MEMBERS)
Telephone (Evening)
Address
Telephone (Day) Facsimile
Suburb
First Name
Mr / Mrs / Miss / Ms / Other
1. YOUR PERSONAL DETAILS
VIC TORIAN OPER A 2016 MEMBERSHIP FORM
$35
$30
VOyage
$30
$30
$25
VOyage
Child
$30
Child
Concession
$30
VOyage
$35
$35
Concession
Full
$40
Full
Cinderella
$45
Concession
$30
VOyage
Senior
$65
Concession
$50
$70
Full
$75
Senior
$30
Full
VOyage
$75
$20
*Gifts that total $500 or more over 12 months automatically become Patrons. For more details on our Patrons Program, see page 43.
One-off gift of (please specify)
$10 $25
$125
$50
$30 Amount
$30
$35
$40
$35
$30
$40
$45
$20 Amount
Qty
$30 Four Saints in Three Acts
$30
$45
$50
$30
$55
$60
$65
$30
Amount
$30
$25
$30
$25
$30
$30
$35
The Pied Piper
Support our work with a monthly donation
Qty
$30
$35
$45
$50
$30
$50
$55
$60
$30
Become a Patron in quarterly installments
5. DONATIONS
B-Reserve
A-Reserve
C-Reserve
B-Reserve
$500
$100
Amount
$150
GRAND TOTAL $
Membership Processing Charge
Membership Total $
Donation $
$250
$75
Amount
Qty
$30 Dinner with the Saints
$35
$45
$50
$30
$50
$55
$60
$30
Other
Qty
$7.95
Cheque (payable to Arts Centre Melbourne)
Expiry
/
CCV/AMEX ID
AMEX
VISA
/
Mastercard
/
I authorise you to charge my credit card in two instalments. Second charge will be made on week commencing 05/12/2015 ($4.40 administration fee applies).
/ Date
/
I am paying by credit card in full Cardholder name Card number Signature
Please mark this box if you would like to keep up with Victorian Opera upcoming performances, events, activities and special offers. 9. PLEASE POST TO VICTORIAN OPERA MEMBERSHIPS PO BOX 7585 ST KILDA ROAD VIC 8004
Terms and Conditions From 20 August 2015, membership orders by mail will be allocated by order of date received. Applications must be accompanied by payment (cheque, money order or credit card) made to Arts Centre Melbourne. There are no refunds or exchanges except as outlined in the Entertainment Code of Fair Practice. Any monies due to applicants as a result of being unable to satisfy ticket requests will be automatically refunded. The right is reserved to vary, substitute or withdraw advertised programs, artists and seating arrangements. Right of admission is reserved. Patrons arriving late will not be admitted until a suitable break. Cameras and other recording devices are prohibited in the auditorium. Mobile telephones, pagers and similar equipment must be turned off in the auditorium. You acknowledge that you are responsible for your safety and property and for the safety and property of any person accompanying you. To the extent permitted by law, you release Victorian Opera from any liability from any damage, loss, liability or injury you may suffer in relation to your attendance, howsoever caused including due to any negligence or other act or omission by Victorian Opera. Victorian Opera respects your privacy. We do not disseminate your details to any third parties. Your details are used solely to advise you of Victorian Opera related events and relevant news.
Laughter and Tears
The Pied Piper
Cinderella
Lucia di Lammermoor
Banquet of Secrets
Voyage to the Moon
Stalls
N/A
Circle
N/A
Aisle
N/A
Best Available
N/A
Audio Described
6. SEATING PREFERENCE
Four Saints in Three Acts
PREFERENCE 1
Dinner with the Saints
7. DATE PREFERENCE Voyage to the Moon Banquet of Secrets Lucia di Lammermoor Cinderella The Pied Piper Laughter and Tears Four Saints in Three Acts Dinner with the Saints
8. PAYMENT DETAILS Grand Total $
Access Needs (Please Specify)
PREFERENCE 2
victorianopera.com.au
Design and illustration by Trout Creative Thinking. _ 60