Duration
2 hrs 15 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until March 17, 2027
Age limit
Suitable for all ages
Why Watch La Bohème ?
- Puccini’s La Bohème returns to Sydney in a new Opera Australia production, blending youthful romance and artistic struggle in snow-kissed Paris.
- Directed by Constantine Costi, this fresh staging features rising opera stars and creative talents, reimagining a timeless classic for today’s audiences.
- Themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of art are set to Puccini’s sweeping score, with evocative sets and magical staging that transport you to bohemian Paris.
- Catch this limited-run opera at the Joan Sutherland Theatre—tickets are in high demand for one of the world’s most beloved operas.
Puccini’s La Bohème is an enduring masterpiece, reimagined for Sydney by Opera Australia’s most exciting young creatives. Set in a snow-kissed Paris, director Constantine Costi’s fresh staging follows four young bohemians surviving on love, art, and friendship—even when poetry cannot pay the rent. Featuring a rising-star cast and Puccini’s sweeping, emotional score, La Bohème at the Joan Sutherland Theatre is a poignant celebration of youth, heartbreak, and romance.
Storyline
On a freezing Christmas Eve in Paris, penniless poet Rodolfo and delicate seamstress Mimì fall deeply in love, swept away by the ecstatic joys of youth, art, and camaraderie. But as a bitter winter sets in, harsh poverty and a fragile illness take their toll—reminding them that you can’t eat poetry, and philosophy won't keep you warm. As jealousy burns and reality tightens its grip, will their fierce passion be enough to keep the cold at bay, or will heartbreak claim them before the thaw?
Show timings
Show timings for La Bohème may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Mimì: Maria Teresa Leva (Jan 2 – Jan 22), Jennifer Black (Jan 25 – Feb 1 & Mar 11 – 17), Samantha Clarke (Feb 3 – Mar 9)
Rodolfo: Matteo Desole (Jan 2 – Feb 1), Paride Cataldo (Feb 3 – Mar 9), Iain Henderson (Mar 11 – 17)
Musetta: Alexandra Flood (Jan 2, 9, 14, 20, 25, 28, Feb 1), Nina Korbe (Jan 12, 16, 22, 30, Feb 3 – Mar 9), Rachelle Durkin (Mar 11 – 17)
Marcello: Jeremy Boulton (Jan 2 – Feb 1), Luke Gabbedy (Feb 3 – Mar 17)
Schaunard: Stephen Marsh (Jan 2 – Feb 1), Leon Vitogiannis (Feb 3 – Mar 9), Jake Lyle (Mar 11 – 17)
Colline: David Parkin (Jan 2 – Feb 1), Jake Bigwood (Feb 3 – Mar 17)
Alcindoro: Simon Meadows (Jan 2 – Feb 1), Shane Lowrencev (Feb 3 – Mar 17)
Benoît: Clifford Plumpton
Conductor: Michelangelo Mazza (Jan 2 – Feb 1) / Paul Fitzsimon (Feb 3 – Mar 17)
Director: Constantine Costi
Set Designer: Dann Barber
Costume Designer: Simone Romaniuk
Lighting Designer: Paul Jackson
Age Suitability
This show is suitable for all ages. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Joan Sutherland Theatre
The Joan Sutherland Theatre is a jewel of the Sydney Opera House, named after Australia’s legendary soprano. Known for its sweeping interiors and world-class acoustics, it hosts major opera, ballet, and musical productions. The theatre’s modern design and intimate atmosphere make it a favorite for both performers and audiences. Past highlights include performances by Opera Australia and international stars.
The Joan Sutherland Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting There
- Address: Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
- By train:
The nearest train stations are Martin Place and St James, as Circular Quay station closes after 3pm on New Year’s Eve.
- By bus:
Buses to Circular Quay (until 3pm); after 3pm, buses are rerouted due to road closures.
Facilities & Accessibility
Amenities: Toilets, Dining outlets, Cloak room, Free parking
Accessibility: Elevator access, Wheelchair accessible, Service animals allowed
Additional Information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets Redemption
You will receive an email with your La Bohème voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid photo ID for identification.
Cancellation & Refunds
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions about La Bohème
The cost of the tickets will vary depending on the type of seats and dates you choose.
The show is suitable for all ages. Children aged 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House.
Set in cold winter Paris, it follows the passionate romance between the impoverished poet Rodolfo and the seamstress Mimì as they navigate love, friendship, artistic ambition, and tragic illness.
The running time is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including one 20-minute interval.
No, the opera is performed in Italian with English and Simplified Chinese surtitles.
The main stars of the show include Maria Teresa Leva, Jennifer Black, and Samantha Clarke alternating as Mimì, alongside Matteo Desole, Paride Cataldo, and Iain Henderson alternating as Rodolfo.
The opera features world-famous arias and duets, including "Che gelida manina", "Sì, mi chiamano Mimì", "O soave fanciulla", and Musetta's waltz "Quando m'en vo'".
