Opera

Dido & Aeneas

Purcell's defining opera comes to life in this circus and cabaret adaptation.

Great for

Opera lovers | Fans of romantic tragedies

Purcell's romantic tragedy helped reshape how operas are written and crafted. One of the earliest attempts at writing an opera in English, Dido & Aeneas reflects the French trend of the time to blend dance music with short arias, resulting in a surprisingly contemporary sound. Director Yaron Lifschitz takes this sound and pairs it with circus acrobatics, cabaret, and stage theatrics to craft a novel rendition of a classic.

The Story

Trojan hero Aeneas escapes the fall of Troy, destined by the gods to found Rome. He sets sail on a journey toward his future, crossing paths with the Queen of Carthage, Dido. Amid the binds of destiny and duty, the star-crossed lovers find themselves at the mercy of dark forces that threaten to rip them apart.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Show details

Genre: Opera

Audience: Suitable for 9+ yrs

Theatre name: Joan Sutherland Theatre

Find the best seats in the house with the Joan Sutherland Theatre seating plan

Theatre facilities: Wheelchair accessibility, pram parking, escalators and elevators, cloakrooms, food and beverages

Theater accessibility: Wheelchair accessibility, pram parking, escalators and elevators

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

Leading cast: Anna Dowsley as Dido/Sorceress, Nicholas Jones as Aeneas, Jane Ede as Belinda, Sian Sharp as Second Lady, Kanen Breen as First Witch/Spirit 'Mercury', Keara Donohoe as Second Witch, and Gregory Brown as Sailor

Direction and stage design: Yaron Lifschitz

Conducting: Erin Helyard (13, 15, 22, 25, 29 Mar) and Chad Kelly (18 & 20 Mar)

Costume design: Libby McDonnell

Lighting design: Matthew Marshall

Additional tips

Keep in mind, that the theater is air-conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly. Bring along a light jacket if needed.

This show contains depictions of nudity and haze effects. Viewer discretion is advised.

You will receive an email with your Dido & Aeneas voucher. Please display the same on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID.

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