23 Aug 2022
This summer’s spectacular new event on Sydney Harbour: Opera on Cockatoo Island
Opera Australia’s brand new, Sydney-exclusive open-air event, Opera on Cockatoo Island, launches this November with a gritty new production of Bizet’s much-loved Carmen, giving visitors a thrilling opportunity to experience world-class opera under the stars with stunning harbour views.
Set in the industrial surrounds of Sydney’s historic Cockatoo Island, this edgy production had been created by celebrated director Liesel Badorrek and set and costume designer Mark Thompson.
Premiering on 25 November 2022, this will be an exciting and immersive production of Carmen, with motorbike stunts and nightly fireworks plus music that even first time opera-goers will recognise and enjoy.
This unique Sydney summer experience is an all-inclusive night out, with customised dining offerings and pop-up bars onsite at one of the most unique locations in the city.
The adventure starts and finishes with leisurely ride on one of Sydney’s famous ferries or water taxis. Guests can arrive early for a tour of the world-heritage listed island, dotted with industrial relics of its ship-building history and architectural marvels of Sydney’s convict past. Or just relax by the water and indulge in a beverage and bite to eat while the sun goes down over the Harbour.
For a truly memorable experience, stay overnight in one of Cockatoo Island’s many accommodation options; a heritage apartment, holiday house, or camping under the stars surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sweeping harbour views.
Presenting one of the world’s most famed operas in the middle of Sydney Harbour is an innovative new addition to Opera Australia’s annual program by OA Artistic Director, Lyndon Terracini AM.
“This Carmen will be like none that we’ve ever staged before and we’re excited to bring something new to audiences. Complete with some of the world’s best singers, a dance troupe and even a motorbike stunt rider, we invite people who’ve never seen an opera to come along and experience something different.
“Opera Australia is always looking for ways to create awe-inspiring experiences for audiences and this new outdoor venue, presents so many new possibilities,” said Lyndon.
Minister for the Arts and Tourism Ben Franklin said he was thrilled to see a new event like Opera on Cockatoo Island added to Sydney’s cultural events calendar.
“Experiencing Carmen against the unique industrial backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island will be a breathtaking experience. This will be a highlight of Sydney’s summer events calendar and a major drawcard for visitors to Sydney,” Mr Franklin said.
“The NSW Government is committed to delivering world-class events like Opera on Cockatoo Island to achieve our goal to make Sydney and NSW the major events capital and premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific.”
Opera on Cockatoo Island is supported by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.
CREATIVES
Conductor Tahu Matheson
Director Liesel Badorrek
Set & Costume Designer Mark Thompson
Lighting Designer John Rayment
Sound Designer Tony David Cray
Choreographer Shannon Burns
Assistant Director Warwick Doddrell
CAST
Carmen Carmen Topciu, Sian Sharp
Don Josè Roberto Aronica, Diego Torre
Escamillo Daniel Sumegi, Alexander Sefton
Micaela Danita Weatherstone, Rebecca Guilinello
Frasquita Jane Ede, Esther Song
Mercedes Agnes Sarkis
Remendado Adam Player
Dancairo Alexander Hargreaves
Zuniga Richard Anderson
Morales Haotian Qi
Opera Australia Chorus
Opera Australia Orchestra
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
Evenings at 7.45pm
November 25, 26, 27, 29, 30, December 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18
Running time
Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes including one interval Performed in French with English subtitles
Bookings
Performance tickets - adults from $79 (+ $9.80 booking fee) F
erry tickets can be booked separately when you purchase performance tickets
Opera Australia Box Office
(02) 9318 8200
www.opera.org.au
For more information on things to see and do in Sydney go to www.sydney.com
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Media enquiries
Caitlin Eames | Publicist 0433 746 644 | caitlin.eames@opera.org.au