The Merry Widow

Opera Queensland brings Graeme Murphy’s new star-studded production of Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow to the Lyric Theatre, QPAC with seven special performances from Jun 22 to 30.

Parisian Art Deco glamour and slick comedy come together in this classic, much loved opera, which tells the story of the enduring yet prickly romance between Hanna and her playboy ex-lover Danilo. 

Champagne, silky ballroom gowns and the intrigue of the salons and cabarets of Paris are the order of the day, with romantic trysts taking place in a Monet Garden.

Two of the country’s most popular and charismatic performers David Hobson (Danilo) and Natalie Christie Peluso (Hanna) head an outstanding cast, which includes audience favourites Jason Barry-Smith, Katie Stenzel, Virgilio Marino and Andrew Collis. The cast are supported by the amazing Opera Queensland Chorus and the Queensland Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Vanessa Scammell.

Celebrated Australian director and our premier choreographer Graeme Murphy has also filled the production with amazing dance numbers reminiscent of great musicals of the past, helping the story to waltz along to unforgettable melodies as the stars fall in and out of love.

Praise has also been abundant for esteemed designers Michael Scott-Mitchell and Jennifer Irwin’s glamorous set and costumes, which will transport Queensland audiences into a world of high fashion and glittering parties.

The new production has received rave reviews in Sydney and Melbourne, with the Sydney Morning Herald describing it as a “Shimmery all-singing, all dancing Broadway Show” and The Sunday Telegraph describing how “...the audience lept to its feet, stamping, whistling and hollering in appreciation.”

Opera Queensland Artistic Director Patrick Nolan said The Merry Widow was a highlight of the cultural calendar in Brisbane this year.

“If you love musicals or have never seen one, this classic operetta has it all,” Mr Nolan said. “The costumes and set are ravishing but it’s the famous music and dance numbers performed by some of Australia’s top musical stars that make it such a stand-out.”

Nice to know - Audiences wanting an even more spectacular experience can also reserve a place at the exclusive opening night dinner, with twilight drinks overlooking the Brisbane city skyline from the Rooftop at Rydges South Bank, followed by a premium two-course wine and dining experience.

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