Opera as a multicultural experience on Sydney Harbour

Opera Australia has announced the return of its spectacular production of Verdi's hugely popular La Traviata to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage in March and April 2020.

The multi-cultural experience will include show-stopping views, world-class performers, fine dining options and nightly fireworks.

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has attracted more than 400,000 attendees from across Australia and around the globe since it launched its first season with La Traviata in 2012, marking the beginning of an annual event. 

Director Constantine Costi will take the reins for the first time in 2020 to present La Traviata based on celebrated director Francesca Zambello's original production. 

The opera will be performed "by an exceptional cast and orchestra", and will be conducted by acclaimed Brian Castles-Onion. No cast members have yet been mamed.

Opera Australia artistic director Lyndon Terracini said he was "thrilled" to have the iconic opera back on the Harbour stage.

“Bringing back La Traviata has a sense of nostalgia," he said. "This event has come so far in the last nine years and has successfully brought the art of opera to so many new audiences. We are proud of what we have accomplished.”

New South Wales Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said: “It is clear why Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is regarded as a must-see event on our State's cultural calendar, as it continues to attract audiences from every corner of the globe. I have no doubt the return of the quintessential opera La Traviata will be bigger and better than ever before.”

The custom-built site features an outdoor stage, grandstand seating for nearly 3,000 people, and an impressive range of themed dining and drinking options that make the most of the harbour views. 

Guests can enjoy Italian-inspired offerings at a range of bars and restaurants that highlight the spectacular Sydney city skyline. From premium to casual eats, the five different restaurant and bar areas ensure all guests are catered for.

Guests looking to travel in style can catch a water taxi to the site. 

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is supported by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW and Dr Haruhisa Handa through the International Foundation for Arts and Culture.

Performances will run from March 27-April 26, 2020, excluding Good Friday. The opera will be performed in Italian with English and Simplified Chinese subtitles. 

www.opera.org.au