Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Arts, George Souris, today joined Opera Australia’s Artistic Director, Lyndon Terracini, and a troupe of flamenco dancers on the spectacular bullfighting ring which is the set of Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour’s Carmen.
26 March 2013Mr Souris was there to promote the opening on Friday (March 22) of the exclusive three-week season of Carmen, one of the most popular operas ever written. The production features some of the world’s best opera talent, a gripping storyline and superb music.
Mr Souris congratulated Opera Australia and the wonderful cast and creative team behind Carmen, including stage director Gale Edwards, set designer Brian Thomson, conductor Brian Castles Onion, costumer designer Julie Lynch and choreographer Kelley Abbey, on their outstanding efforts in bringing this internationally acclaimed event to the Harbour City for a second time.
“Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is a key cultural event on our Events Calendar. The NSW Government is pleased to support it together with Dr Haruhisa Handa from The International Foundation for Arts and Culture, who is renowned for his passion and support of cultural endeavours across the globe.
“I am pleased that opera enthusiasts and those new to the art form will have the opportunity to experience this monumental production of Carmen on the grandest outdoor stage - Sydney’s magnificent harbour.
“Carmen is guaranteed to have the same broad appeal as last year’s production of La Traviata, which attracted more than 41,000 people, including 5,000 visitors from interstate and overseas. It was judged the No 1 world event for that month by London’s Guardian Newspaper and in the top 10 for the world for 2012.
“Based on 18 performances and a capacity of 54,000, it is expected that $20 million will flow into the NSW economy throughout Carmen’s season.”
Artistic Director, Lyndon Terracini said Opera Australia was thrilled to present a superb international cast in this wonderful Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour production of Carmen.
“Sydney’s dazzling skyline provides a magnificent backdrop for all the passion and drama to unfold in one of the greatest operas ever written. With spectacular performances, fireworks, flamenco dancing and giant props delivered onstage by massive cranes, Carmen will be a truly unforgettable experience,” Mr Terracini said.
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