Opera on Cockatoo Island to hit Sydney in November

Opera Australia’s new open-air event, Opera on Cockatoo Island, launches this November with a new production of Bizet’s Carmen.

Set in the industrial surrounds of Sydney’s Cockatoo Island, this production had been created by director Liesel Badorrek and set and costume designer Mark Thompson. This production of Carmen will premiere on 25 November 2022 and feature motorbike stunts and nightly fireworks.

The event starts and finishes with a ride on one of Sydney’s ferries or water taxis. Guests can arrive early for a tour of the world-heritage listed island or relax by the water and indulge in a beverage and bite to eat while the sun goes down over the Harbour.

Travellers can also stay overnight in one of Cockatoo Island’s many accommodation options; a heritage apartment, holiday house, or camping under the stars.

Presenting one of the world’s most famed operas in the middle of Sydney Harbour is the new addition to Opera Australia’s annual program by OA Artistic Director, Lyndon Terracini AM.

“This Carmen will be like none that we’ve ever staged before and we’re excited to bring something new to audiences,” Terracini said.

“Complete with some of the world’s best singers, a dance troupe and even a motorbike stunt rider, we invite people who’ve never seen an opera to come along and experience something different.

“Opera Australia is always looking for ways to create awe-inspiring experiences for audiences and this new outdoor venue presents so many new possibilities.”

Minister for the arts and tourism Ben Franklin said he was thrilled to see a new event like Opera on Cockatoo Island added to Sydney’s cultural events calendar.

“Experiencing Carmen against the unique industrial backdrop of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island will be a breathtaking experience. This will be a highlight of Sydney’s summer events calendar and a major drawcard for visitors to Sydney,” Franklin said.

“The NSW Government is committed to delivering world-class events like Opera on Cockatoo Island to achieve our goal to make Sydney and NSW the major events capital and premier visitor economy of the Asia Pacific.”

Opera on Cockatoo Island is supported by the NSW Government via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW.

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Bizet Carmen Liesel Badorrek Mark Thompson Opera on Cockatoo Island