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.
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 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.
