Duration
2 hrs 25 mins - 2 hrs 45 mins with 1 interval
Closing Date
Until March 27, 2026
Age limit
Suitable for all ages
Why Watch Turandot?
- A mysterious princess, three impossible riddles, and Puccini’s soaring score collide in Turandot, one of opera’s most gripping fables, at the Joan Sutherland Theater.
- Leading dramatic sopranos, Rebecca Nash and Anna-Louise Cole, share the formidable title role, while acclaimed tenor Young Woo Kim joins Diego Torre and Rosario La Spina as Calaf.
- Monumental sets, atmospheric lighting, and immersive video design create a visually striking world where riddles guard the heart of an icy princess.
- Puccini’s rich choral writing, the iconic aria “Nessun dorma”, and conductors like Henrik Nánási, Tahu Matheson, and more make this an unforgettable live experience.
- This limited-season opera is part of Australia’s National Opera Conference, making it one of Sydney’s most anticipated cultural events of the year. Book your tickets to Turandot in Sydney now!
Puccini’s Turandot returns to the Joan Sutherland Theater in a bold new production directed and choreographed by Ann Yee. Known for her innovative stagecraft, Yee collaborates with a powerhouse team to create a sweeping visual experience. Two of Australia’s most exciting sopranos, Rebecca Nash and Anna-Louise Cole, alternate as Turandot, while celebrated tenor Young Woo Kim joins local favourites Diego Torre and Rosario La Spina as Calaf. Conductors Henrik Nánási, Nicholas Milton, Andrea Battistoni, and Tahu Matheson lead the Opera Australia Orchestra and Chorus through Puccini’s largest choral work and the celebrated aria “Nessun dorma.” With Chinese cultural consultants Prof Jing Han and Dr Xiaohuan Zhao guiding the creative team, this production balances spectacle with sensitivity.
Storyline
Set in an ancient Chinese empire, Turandot follows Princess Turandot, a ruler who sets impossible riddles for her suitors. Any wrong answer leads to death. When the mysterious Calaf steps forward to try his luck, a battle of wit, courage, and destiny begins. As the icy princess meets an unyielding challenger, the boundaries between love and power blur. The question remains: will anyone ever solve her riddles? Book Turandot Sydney tickets to witness this legendary tale unfold live on stage.
Show timings
Show timings for Turandot may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Cast & Crew
Leading roles:
Rebecca Nash as Turandot (Jan 15–Feb 10)
Anna-Louise Cole as Turandot (Feb 13–Mar 27)
Young Woo Kim as Calaf (Jan 15–Feb 10)
Diego Torre as Calaf (Feb 13–Mar 16)
Rosario La Spina as Calaf (Mar 21–Mar 27)
Maria Teresa Leva as Liù (Jan 15–Feb 10)
Jennifer Black as Liù (Feb 13–Mar 27)
Richard Anderson as Timur
Gregory Brown as The Emperor
Shane Lowrencev as The Mandarin
Annabelle Chaffey & Leah Thomas as Handmaidens
Conductor:
Henrik Nánási (Jan 15–Feb 10)
Nicholas Milton (Feb 13–Feb 27)
Andrea Battistoni (Mar 4–Mar 13)
Tahu Matheson (Mar 16–Mar 27)
Director & choreographer: Ann Yee
Set designer: Elizabeth Gadsby
Costume designer: David Fleischer
Lighting designer: Paul Jackson
Video designer: Andrew Thomas Huang
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 Turandot 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
The opera does not have a strict age limit. It is suitable for all ages. Children under the age of 15 years must be accompanied at all times. The production also contains adult themes, so viewers' discretion is advised.
The opera is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House.
Turandot is set in ancient China and follows the icy Princess Turandot, whose suitors must solve her riddles or face death. The opera explores themes of love, courage, and sacrifice, as the determined Prince Calaf risks everything to win her heart.
The running time is 2 hours and 25 minutes with one intermission.
The main stars of the opera are Rebecca Nash as Turandot, Anna-Louise Cole as Turandot, Young Woo Kim as Calaf, Diego Torre as Calaf, Rosario La Spina as Calaf, Maria Teresa Leva as Liù, and more.
The performance is in Italian, with English surtitles displayed above the stage.
Yes. With its legendary music, gripping story, and spectacular staging, Turandot is one of the most accessible and visually stunning operas for newcomers.
