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.
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.
Frequently asked questions
The cost of the tickets starts from AU$111.25 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
The opera does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 8 years and above.
The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater in Sydney.
et in Paris and the fictional country of Pontevedro in the early 20th century, the operetta follows wealthy widow Hanna Glavari as diplomats and suitors scheme to keep her fortune in her home country.
The running time is 2 hours and 55 minutes with two intermissions.
The lead role of Hanna Glavari is shared by Emma Pearson (July 8-26) and Julie Lea Goodwin (July 31–August 18). They are joined by Alexander Lewis as Danilo Danilovich, Alexandra Flood as Valencienne, and David Whitney (July 8-26) / Andrew Moran (July 31–August 18) as Baron Mirko Zeta.
Yes, even though the opera is performed in English, English surtitles are displayed above the stage for more clarity.
