The Merry Widow

Franz Lehár’s The Merry Widow has charmed audiences worldwide since its 1905 premiere. Opera Australia’s Sydney production revives the operetta with Parisian glamour and Art Deco flair. Director and choreographer Graeme Murphy AO infuses the classic with his signature lively movement, while conductor Vanessa Scammell leads Lehár’s beloved waltzes and tuneful score.

The cast features Emma Pearson and Julie Lea Goodwin alternating as Hanna Glavari, Alexander Lewis as Danilo, and Alexandra Flood as Valencienne, supported by a strong Australian ensemble. Sumptuous costumes by Jennifer Irwin and elegant sets by Michael Scott-Mitchell create a stage picture as sophisticated as the music. This Sydney season runs for six weeks, offering a limited chance to experience one of the most joyful operettas in the repertoire live.

The Story

Set in a glamorous Parisian embassy at the turn of the 20th century, The Merry Widow follows the wealthy widow Hanna Glavari, whose fortune has captured the attention of suitors and diplomats alike. To keep her fortune in her homeland, the Pontevedrian ambassador plots to match her with the charming yet conflicted Danilo. Amid swirling waltzes, secret rendezvous, and witty schemes, love and politics intertwine in unexpected ways.

Show Timings

Show timings for The Merry Widow may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.

Cast & Crew

• Leading roles: Emma Pearson (Jul 8-26) / Julie Lea Goodwin (Jul 31–Aug 18) as Hanna Glavari, Alexander Lewis as Danilo Danilovich, David Whitney (Jul 8-26) / Andrew Moran (Jul 31–Aug 18) as Baron Mirko Zeta, Alexandra Flood as Valencienne, John Longmuir (Jul 8-26) / Virgilio Marino (Jul 31–Aug 18) as Camille de Rosillon, Benjamin Rasheed as Njegus, Richard Anderson as Alexis Kromov.
• Conductor: Vanessa Scammell
• Director: Graeme Murphy
• Producer: Opera Australia
• Book: Viktor Léon and Leo Stein
• Choreographer: Graeme Murph
• Composer: Franz Lehár
• English translation: Justin Fleming
• Set designer: Michael Scott-Mitchell
• Costume designer: Jennifer Irwin

• This show is suitable for ages 8 years and above.
• Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!

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.

• Address: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
• Train: The nearest station is Circular Quay, serviced by Sydney Trains (T2 Inner West & Leppington Line, T3 Bankstown Line, and T8 Airport & South Line). From there, it’s a 7-minute walk to the theatre.
• Bus: Numerous bus routes terminate at Circular Quay, including 333, 392X, 394X, 396, 397, 891, and 892, providing easy access from different parts of Sydney.

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

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible restrooms, companion seating, hearing assistance, accessible parking spaces

• 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.