Opera

Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House

A poetic new opera, inspired by a beloved Australian novel, brings lyrical storytelling and lush visuals to Sydney’s iconic Joan Sutherland Theatre.

Adapted from Murray Bail’s novel, this lyrical opera weaves stories of love and longing out of bark and leaves in an Australian eucalypt forest.

Created by Sir Jonathan Mills and Meredith Oakes, Michael Gow directs a stellar cast including Green Room Award winner Michael Petruccelli.

Celebrated by critics—The Age calls it "What a performance!"—this production explores beauty, sanctuary, and freedom through striking staging.

Staged for a strictly limited 3-performance season at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, book your Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House tickets now on Headout!

The story

Sheltered within an expansive sanctuary of hundreds of eucalypt species planted by her overprotective father, Ellen Holland is offered only to the suitor who can name every tree. As collectors methodically catalogue the leaves, Ellen meets an enigmatic stranger spinning tales of distant lands, testing whether genuine love can ever be categorized.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Show details

Categories: Opera, Drama, Critics' Choice, Romance

Audience: Suitable for all ages

Theatre name: Joan Sutherland Theatre

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

Facilities: Bar, restaurant, cloakroom, restrooms, lounge, elevator

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible toilets, accessible seats, ramp, assistive listening devices

Cast & crew

Leading roles: Desiree Frahn as Ellen Holland, Simon Meadows as Holland, Michael Petruccelli as The Stranger, Samuel Dundas as Cave

Composer: Sir Jonathan Mills

Librettist: Meredith Oakes

After the novel by: Murray Bail

Conductor: Tahu Matheson

Director: Michael Gow

Set & Costume Designer: Simone Romaniuk

Lighting Designer: Trudy Dalgleish

Additional info

This show is suitable for all ages. Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied at all times.

Content warning: Contains theatrical haze, stage smoke, and subtle dynamic lighting effects. User's discretion is advised.

Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!

Frequently asked questions about Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House

Q: How much do Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats, performance dates, and availability.

Q: Where is Eucalyptus playing in Sydney?

A: The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House, for an exclusive 3-performance season.

Q: How long does the Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House run for?

A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one interval.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: A father decrees his daughter can only marry a suitor who can name every tree in his eucalypt forest, leading to a tale of love, longing, and discovery.

Q: Is the Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House suitable for children?

A: Suitable for all ages; all children need their own ticket, and those under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Q: Is Eucalyptus at Sydney Opera House based on a book?

A: Yes, the opera is inspired by Murray Bail’s Miles Franklin Award–winning Australian novel Eucalyptus.

Q: Who is on the creative team behind the opera?

A: The opera is directed by Michael Gow, composed by Sir Jonathan Mills, with a libretto by Meredith Oakes.

Q: Is the opera performed in English?

A: Yes, the performance is sung in English, with English surtitles provided on screens above the stage.

Q: Can I take photos or videos during the show?

A: Filming and photography are strictly prohibited inside the auditorium during the performance.

Q: Are group discounts available for tickets?

A: Yes, multi-seat allocations and group options are available. Choose your group size during checkout.

Q: What is the policy for late arrivals?

A: Latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance, which may not be until the interval.

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