When you think of Opera, I bet the puffy dresses, those little binoculars and lots of words in Italian come to mind, not talented West Australians performing at the WACA. If the past two years have taught us anything, it is that we should embrace our culture, explore new experiences, and test our theories as to whether Opera is just for those with binoculars or something we all can enjoy.
I’ve recently enjoyed delving head first into the culture and arts scene of W.A. and I am excited to share with you that the West Australian Opera has created a 2022 program that is welcoming all of its into the fold.
Opera is for everyone and this program is something really special. From performances at the WACA, through to the Government House Ballroom; stories sharing hope, passion and purpose, there has never been a better time for new experiences, and to dip your toes into the world of Opera.
Executive Director Carolyn Chard AM says: “At the core, these stories cause us to reflect on the human condition, to ponder our fears, our flaws, our trials and our triumphs. Recent times have proven just how resilient we can be, and this passion and hope we carry is the foundation of the 2022 season.”
Without further ado, let me introduce you to the stunning performances Perth can expect in 2022.
The season starts with Carmen for two nights only, February 25 – 26. Bizet’s masterpiece Carmen will be performed in an arena spectacular at the WACA Ground complete with fully staged
set, chorus, children’s chorus, the West Australian Symphony Orchestra and pyrotechnics. Mezzo-soprano Ashlyn Tymms will play the titular character and lead an outstanding Western Australian cast.
Carmen -In association with Perth Festival
WACA Ground
25, 26 Feb 2022
From the WACA to His Majesty’s Theatre, April brings to us a performance of Tchaikovsky’s Iolanta.
This world premiere production is a collaboration between West Australian Opera and the vision impaired community of Perth, who have updated the libretto, and developed a moving production that tells the story from the blind heroine,
Iolanta’s point of view. I was moved when I heard at the 2022 program launch, of the true collaboration and involvement of the vision impaired community with this production. Inclusivity and respect have had a high priority and it is wonderful. The title role will be sung by Western Australian soprano Elena Peroni.
Iolanta
His Majesty’s Theatre
6, 7, 8, 9 April 2022
Add a little history to your evening in May when two diva sopranos, Emma Pettemerides and Naomi Johns, perform in a face off for the ages in The Duel.
The Duel will be at Government House Ballroom where the audience will be close to the action alongside an intimate dinner, channeling the 1786 standoff by composers Antonio Salieri and Wolfgang Mozart.
The Duel
Government House Ballroom
12, 13, 14, 15 May 2022
In July, the company will stage a production new to Perth with Opera Queensland 1970’s setting of Puccini’s beloved Tosca. Soprano Maija Kovalesvka makes her West Australian Opera debut as the titular character.
Tosca
His Majesty’s Theatre
14, 16, 19, 21, 23 July 2022
West Australian Opera have previously presented two other performances for the young, and the young at heart. The Nightingale and Koolbardi wer Wardong were such a success that their third Opera piece for young people will be Our Little Inventor in October.
Our Little Inventor is a moving story about how some of the biggest and brightest ideas start from the smallest of places. This performance is an operatic retelling of author Sher Rill Ng’s beloved book of the same name and would be a wonderful experience for the entire family.
Our Little Inventor
His Majesty’s Theatre
1, 2 October 2022
West Australian Opera will close their season in late October with a brand-new production of Verdi’s La traviata. Under the direction of Sarah Giles and featuring Samantha Clarke and Paul O’Neill as the star-crossed lovers, La traviata will delight opera lovers and new audiences, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t enjoy a true love story.
La traviata
His Majesty’s Theatre
20, 22, 25, 27, 29 October 2022
For more information on each of these productions and more news on West Australian Opera head to their website here.