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Duration

2 hrs 55 mins with 2 intervals

Closing Date

Until August 18, 2026

Age limit

Suitable for 8+ yrs

Why Watch The Merry Widow?

  • Romantic intrigue meets Parisian high society in this sparkling operetta with Franz Lehár’s composition, blending Viennese waltzes, witty comedy, and a touch of old-world glamour.
  • International opera star Emma Pearson and acclaimed soprano Julie Lea Goodwin share the lead as Hanna Glavari, with Alexander Lewis reprising his celebrated role as Danilo.
  • Under Graeme Murphy’s direction and Vanessa Scammell's conduction, this production is so "visually stunning that sometimes you simply don’t know where to look" (The Sydney Morning Herald).
  • Lavish Art Deco costumes, opulent geometric sets, and a dance-packed score bring early 20th-century Paris to life at the Joan Sutherland Theater. Book The Merry Widow Sydney tickets now!

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.

Storyline

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

Age Suitability

  • 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!

  • Most theaters are air-conditioned year-round, so it can get a bit chilly. Bring a light jacket just in case.

About Theatre

The Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House is one of Australia’s premier performance venues. Originally known as the Opera Theatre, it was renamed in 2012 in honour of the legendary Australian soprano Joan Sutherland. Its horseshoe-shaped auditorium ensures excellent acoustics and intimate sightlines, while its state-of-the-art stage machinery allows for seamless scene changes. Over the years, it has hosted grand operas, ballets, and acclaimed productions, making it a cornerstone of Sydney’s cultural life.

The Joan Sutherland Theater seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.

Getting There

  • 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.

Facilities & Accessibility

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

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

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 The Merry Widow voucher. No need to print. Please carry a valid Photo Id for identification.

Cancellation & Refunds

  • These tickets can't be cancelled. However, they can be rescheduled up to 48 hours before the experience begins.

Frequently asked questions

The cost of the tickets starts from AU$111.25 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.