Opera Australia returns to Brisbane after 24 years

Finance, Natural Resources and The Arts
The Honourable Rachel Nolan
15/11/2011

Federal Arts Minister Simon Crean and Queensland Arts Minister Rachel Nolan have welcomed Opera Australia's launch of the national company's much anticipated 2012 Brisbane season.

"In 2012 our national opera company will present 10 performances of two wonderful productions, Baz Luhrmann's stunning A Midsummer Night's Dream and the new Metropolitan Opera production of The Magic Flute, at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) from 26 May to 9 June," Ms Nolan said.

"I have no doubt Queensland music lovers will be quick to purchase tickets for both productions, which are being performed in Queensland by Opera Australia for the first time.

"It is especially exciting for Queensland that Opera Australia's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream will be performed exclusively in Brisbane in 2012.

"I have no doubt that people will travel far and wide to catch this magnificent show, which means today's announcement is not just a win for Queensland's thriving arts scene, but a boost for tourism."
Ms Nolan said the Queensland Government is focused on securing high-calibre events and exclusives, like this, because they promote Queensland as a destination which brings flow on economic and tourism benefits.

"Opera Australia's visit is just one of a number of key events over the coming year that will contribute to Queensland's reputation as a vibrant arts and cultural hub and it's important to keep that momentum going," Ms Nolan said.

"Building a strong arts scene attracts bright creative people to our state and that's what we're seeing through our investment in the arts.
"Queensland has a vibrant opera culture, with a dynamic young performer's program managed by Opera Queensland. Opera Australia's visit will complement and enhance this culture, which is part of further strengthening our arts scene.

"I am delighted that Opera Australia season will include Queensland-based singers Conal Coad, Andrew Collis and Milica Ilic, as well as some of Opera Australia's best loved stars including Taryn Fiebig, Lorina Gore and Jacqueline Dark."

Mr Crean said live broadcasting of an opera production to regional centres in Queensland was integral to Opera Australia's 2012 Brisbane season and was one of the most important elements in Opera Australia's return to Queensland after twenty-four years.
"Earlier this year the simulcast system from QPAC to regional Queensland was successfully trialled with the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra," Mr Crean said.

"This simulcast was seen on the big screen by more than 6500 from Brisbane in the south, north to Cairns and west to Mt Isa and I am sure the Opera Australia simulcast will be equally well received.
"This simulcast capacity opens the window for regional Queenslanders to a huge array of world class cultural experiences not previously available to them."

The Queensland Government and the Australian Government provided joint funding of $2.4 million to support Opera Australia's much anticipated return to our state.
Tickets for Opera Australia's season at QPAC will be on sale from 9am Monday 21 November.
For more information go to qpac.com.au or phone 136246.

Media Contacts:
Minister Nolan's Office - Justine Scarff 0400 367 174
Minister Crean's Office - Angela Dorizas 0408 685 557