Opera Australia’s upcoming production of Don Giovanni promises to be a delicious treat for those who enjoy their opera dark like their chocolate.
The production will welcome back well-loved stars while introducing some exciting new talent.
Sophie Salvesani’s official mainstage opera debut
After successfully stepping in at the last minute earlier this year to play Violetta in La Traviata, OA Young Artist Sophie Salvesani will make her official mainstage opera debut for the company in the role of Donna Anna. Sharing the role with Salvesani is OA Chorus member Celeste Lazarenko, who is also making her mainstage leading principal role debut.
The role of Donna Elvira will be shared by Jane Ede and Chorus member soprano Bronwyn Douglass, who is making her mainstage debut here. Ede received a fantastic reception for playing this role in 2020.
Spanish tenor Juan De Dios Mateos will reprise the role of Don Ottavio. In the 2020 production, the Canberra Critics Circle proclaimed that De Dios “impressed with his striking, clarion clear tenor voice”.
The Don Giovanni cast will be rounded out by soprano Cathy-Di Zhang in the role of Zerlina, baritone Andrew Williams as Masetto and bass David Parkin as Commendatore.
The thrilling score will be performed by the OA Orchestra under the baton of two renowned conductors. Guillaume Tourniaire will start the season, followed by Paul Fitzsimon. Award-winning Australian director Warwick Doddrell will provide revival direction.
Using an eerie setting to foreshadow the tragic elements of the story, McVicar’s gothic reimagining of Mozart’s opera takes place at the end of the enlightenment age. The monumental set is designed by Robert Jones. Beginning with an epic staircase from the ceiling, it will draw gasps from the audience at its sheer size, helping to fully immerse viewers in this exciting psychological thriller.
Dates
- When: January 5, 7, 10, 17, 19, 21, 25, 28. Feb 2, 9, 17. Matinee performance on Saturday, January 14.
- Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
- Purchase tickets here.