Opera

Turandot

Duration

2 hrs 25 mins - 2 hrs 45 mins with 1 interval

Age Limit

Suitable for all ages

Riddles, revenge, and Puccini’s soaring ‘Nessun dorma’ light up Sydney! With Rebecca Nash & Anna-Louise Cole as Turandot, this spectacular opera is a season must.

Puccini’s legendary Turandot returns to Australia, blending myth, danger, and romance in an unforgettable opera spectacle perfect for drama lovers.

Two powerhouse sopranos, Rebecca Nash (Met Opera) and Anna-Louise Cole, headline alongside acclaimed tenor Young Woo Kim, directed by Ann Yee.

Themes of courage, ancestral trauma, and sacrificial love unfold through monumental sets, hypnotic visuals, and Puccini’s Nessun dorma.

This grand new production lights up the Joan Sutherland Theater for a limited season, with four renowned conductors leading Puccini’s biggest choral score.

A rare operatic collaboration of scale, featuring Australian and international talent, don’t miss this fable of fire, ice, and impossible riddles. Book your Turandot Sydney tickets today!

The story

In ancient Peking, Princess Turandot guards her heart with lethal riddles: answer wrong and lose your head. When the mysterious Calaf dares to solve them, centuries-old wounds, acts of sacrifice, and questions of love ignite. Puccini’s lush score heightens every twist. But will Turandot’s icy armor crack, or will the game turn deadly once more?

4.4/5(2,160)

Gregory B

Solo

Verified booking

Apr 2026

Australian opera at the Sydney opera house, spectacular. Who could ask for more. The setting of the opera house on Sydney harbour is spectacular itself, being inside that majestic building watching and listing to toe Australian opera company. It was an expensive night, including city hotel. Worth every cent. Sydney city was great eating and unfortunately great shopping

James B

Couple

Verified booking

Mar 2026

I recently had the pleasure of seeing Puccini’s Turandot at the Sydney Opera House, and I have to say—it completely won me over. This is an opera that can sometimes feel like a grand, slightly overstuffed spectacle, but this production struck a wonderful balance between visual wow-factor and genuine emotional pull. The set design was stunning—modern without being gimmicky, and refreshingly free of the usual “ancient China by way of a theme park” aesthetic. Instead, it gave us a bold, almost sculptural world that felt timeless and just abstract enough to let the story breathe. I found myself actually paying attention to the staging (always a good sign!) rather than just waiting for the next big aria. What I appreciated most was the direction. Turandot wasn’t just the usual ice princess issuing riddles and death sentences before breakfast; there were hints of something more human underneath. By the time she begins to soften, I actually believed it… which, if we’re being honest, is not always the case with this opera. And then there was that moment. During “Nessun dorma,” everything seemed to pause - the stage dimmed, the movement stilled, and suddenly it felt as though the entire opera house was holding its breath along with Calaf. As the music swelled, the lighting slowly warmed and opened up the space, almost like dawn breaking in real time. It was simple and genuinely moving. And, of course, the Sydney Opera House was the perfect backdrop for it all!

Chan C

Couple

Verified booking

Mar 2026

The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-visit, for its amazing architectural design and glamorous performances. This production of the all-time favourite opera Turandot is unique, in terms of set design. The use of projection of the fierce image of the princess is stunning and effective. The dramatic voice of the princess is particularly unforgettable. I wish I could have the opportunity to attend the forthcoming performance of the Phantom.

Roger W

Couple

Verified booking

Mar 2026

A Stella performance of Turandot in one of the world's great buildings was the highlight of our visit to Sydney. It has been a longtime ambition to enjoy an opera at the Opera House and this exceeded all of our expectations. Amazing soloists, brilliant cast members, a wonderful orchestra and a sensational stage set made for a most memorable evening. Thanks to all involved, we have a memory to last a lifetime. R&H. Ascot, UK

Michael M

Group

Verified booking

Mar 2026

First off, it was a thrill for me to hear an opera at the Sydney Opera House. It was a bucket list check the box. I'm from Chicago so I came a long ways to tour and see a performance. "Turandot" was a new experience with creatively inspired sets, modern apparel and enthralling choreography. Both leads, the soprano and the tenor had exceptional voices and the tenor nailed "Nessum Dorma." Bravo!

Puccini’s legendary Turandot returns to Australia, blending myth, danger, and romance in an unforgettable opera spectacle perfect for drama lovers.

Two powerhouse sopranos, Rebecca Nash (Met Opera) and Anna-Louise Cole, headline alongside acclaimed tenor Young Woo Kim, directed by Ann Yee.

Themes of courage, ancestral trauma, and sacrificial love unfold through monumental sets, hypnotic visuals, and Puccini’s Nessun dorma.

This grand new production lights up the Joan Sutherland Theater for a limited season, with four renowned conductors leading Puccini’s biggest choral score.

A rare operatic collaboration of scale, featuring Australian and international talent, don’t miss this fable of fire, ice, and impossible riddles. Book your Turandot Sydney tickets today!

The story

In ancient Peking, Princess Turandot guards her heart with lethal riddles: answer wrong and lose your head. When the mysterious Calaf dares to solve them, centuries-old wounds, acts of sacrifice, and questions of love ignite. Puccini’s lush score heightens every twist. But will Turandot’s icy armor crack, or will the game turn deadly once more?

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

2,160 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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What our guests say
Gregory B
Solo
Verified booking
Apr 2026
Australian opera at the Sydney opera house, spectacular. Who could ask for more. The setting of the opera house on Sydney harbour is spectacular itself, being inside that majestic building watching and listing to toe Australian opera company. It was an expensive night, including city hotel. Worth every cent. Sydney city was great eating and unfortunately great shopping
Paolina T
Solo
Verified booking
Mar 2026
Turandot at the Sydney Opera House was an absolutely amazing experience. The performance was stunning and with incredible vocals that gave me goosebumps. It’s truly something you shouldn’t miss—100% worth it when visiting Sydney.
James B
Couple
Verified booking
Mar 2026
I recently had the pleasure of seeing Puccini’s Turandot at the Sydney Opera House, and I have to say—it completely won me over. This is an opera that can sometimes feel like a grand, slightly overstuffed spectacle, but this production struck a wonderful balance between visual wow-factor and genuine emotional pull. The set design was stunning—modern without being gimmicky, and refreshingly free of the usual “ancient China by way of a theme park” aesthetic. Instead, it gave us a bold, almost sculptural world that felt timeless and just abstract enough to let the story breathe. I found myself actually paying attention to the staging (always a good sign!) rather than just waiting for the next big aria. What I appreciated most was the direction. Turandot wasn’t just the usual ice princess issuing riddles and death sentences before breakfast; there were hints of something more human underneath. By the time she begins to soften, I actually believed it… which, if we’re being honest, is not always the case with this opera. And then there was that moment. During “Nessun dorma,” everything seemed to pause - the stage dimmed, the movement stilled, and suddenly it felt as though the entire opera house was holding its breath along with Calaf. As the music swelled, the lighting slowly warmed and opened up the space, almost like dawn breaking in real time. It was simple and genuinely moving. And, of course, the Sydney Opera House was the perfect backdrop for it all!
Chan C
Couple
Verified booking
Mar 2026
The iconic Sydney Opera House is a must-visit, for its amazing architectural design and glamorous performances. This production of the all-time favourite opera Turandot is unique, in terms of set design. The use of projection of the fierce image of the princess is stunning and effective. The dramatic voice of the princess is particularly unforgettable. I wish I could have the opportunity to attend the forthcoming performance of the Phantom.
Manfred R
Couple
Verified booking
Mar 2026
Puccini is still Puccini, but the two lead singers and the chorus were outstanding! The entire production was very, very good. I had imagined the interior of the Sydney Opera House to be a bit more glamorous.

Show details

Categories: Opera, Classic, Drama

Audience: Suitable for all ages

Theater name: Joan Sutherland Theater

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

Theater facilities: Restrooms, bar, cloakroom, restaurant, lounge, elevator

Theater accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible restrooms, companion seating, hearing assistance, accessible parking spaces

Dress code: Smart casual

Cast & crew

Leading roles:

Rebecca Nash as Turandot (Jan 15–Feb 10)

Anna-Louise Cole as Turandot (Feb 13–Mar 27)

Young Woo Kim as Calaf (Jan 15–Feb 10)

Diego Torre as Calaf (Feb 13–Mar 16)

Rosario La Spina as Calaf (Mar 21–Mar 27)

Maria Teresa Leva as Liù (Jan 15–Feb 10)

Jennifer Black as Liù (Feb 13–Mar 27)

Richard Anderson as Timur

Gregory Brown as The Emperor

Shane Lowrencev as The Mandarin

Annabelle Chaffey & Leah Thomas as Handmaidens

Conductor:

Henrik Nánási (Jan 15–Feb 10)

Nicholas Milton (Feb 13–Feb 27)

Andrea Battistoni (Mar 4–Mar 13)

Tahu Matheson (Mar 16–Mar 27)

Director & choreographer: Ann Yee

Set designer: Elizabeth Gadsby

Costume designer: David Fleischer

Lighting designer: Paul Jackson

Video designer: Andrew Thomas Huang

Additional tips

This show is suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 15 years must be accompanied at all times.

Content warning: The production contains adult themes. Viewer's discretion is advised.

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

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.

Frequently asked questions about Turandot

Q: How much do the Turandot Sydney tickets cost?

A: Prices may change based on your choice of seats and show dates.

Q: Where is Turandot playing in Sydney?

A: The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater.

Q: How long does the performance run?

A: The show lasts for about 2 hours and 25 minutes, including one intermission.

Q: What’s the story about?

A: In ancient Peking, Princess Turandot tests suitors with deadly riddles until a stranger solves them, setting off a battle between love, pride, and destiny.

Q: Is the show suitable for children?

A: There’s no strict age limit; it's suitable for all ages, but children under the age of 15 years must be accompanied at all times.

Q: What language is the opera performed in?

A: Turandot is sung in Italian, with English surtitles displayed above the stage.

Q: What is the most famous aria in Turandot?

A: The opera features Puccini’s iconic aria “Nessun dorma”, one of the most celebrated tenor pieces in the world.