La Bohème

Feel the spark of the ultimate bohemian love story.

A painter, a musician, a philosopher, and a poet hit the town with pockets as empty as their wine glasses. Café Momus? Too fancy. But who needs cash when you’ve got charisma and a knack for dodging the bar tab?

Since its debut in 1896, La Bohème has become one of the most performed operas in the world, often topping the charts in terms of popularity in opera houses everywhere.When words fall short, music speaks. La Bohème takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions: love's highs, jealousy’s sparks, and loss’s tears—all through Puccini’s unforgettable score.Composer Giacomo Puccini was reportedly inspired by his own experiences as a young artist in Milan, often feeling like the characters he created in the opera—struggling with finances but rich in passion.

The Story

La Bohème is the quintessential bohemian opera, set in 1830s Paris and inspired by Henri Murger’s novel Scènes de la Vie de Bohème, which chronicled the lives of struggling artists in the city.

The central love story between Rodolfo and Mimi is one of opera’s most iconic love triangles, filled with passion, heartbreak, and of course, a little tragedy. First love sweeps you off your feet, jealousy leaves scorch marks, and heartbreak teaches you the lessons you didn’t ask for. La Bohème captures it all—the bliss, the burn, and the bittersweet goodbye.

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

• Leading roles: Olivia Cranwell as Mimì, Kang Wang (23 Aug–16 Sep) and Iain Henderson (18 & 20 Sep) as Rodolfo, Rachelle Durkin as Musetta, Luke Gabbedy as Marcello
• Conductor: Erina Yashima (23 Aug–8 Sep) and Paul Fitzsimon (10–20 Sep)
• Direction: Gale Edwards
• Set Designer: Brian Thomson
• Costume Designer: Julie Lynch
• Lighting Designer: John Rayment
• Revival Director: Danielle Maas

• Children under 15 should be accompanied by an adult.
• This production contains partial nudity.
• Performed in Italian with English surtitles.

Tickets Redemption

• You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
• Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!

Cancellation & Refunds

• Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.

Bus: Several bus routes (396, 343, 304, 441, 333, 392N) connect to Circular Quay, the nearest stop to the Joan Sutherland Theatre.

Light rail: Take L2 or L3 from Wynyard Station to Circular Quay, then use the Courtesy Bus.

Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar, cloakroom, restaurant, cafe, lounge, gift shop, public telephones, baby changing facilities, ATMs

Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, wheelchair spaces available, guide dogs allowed, hearing assistance, access performances, accessible restrooms, companion seating, audio description

• 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.