Step beneath Sydney Opera House’s iconic sails for a guided tour packed with stories and secrets.
Step beneath Sydney Opera House’s iconic sails for a guided tour packed with stories and secrets.
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Discover Sydney Opera House with a guided tour in your chosen language and a harbourside meal.
Discover Sydney Opera House with a guided tour in your chosen language and a harbourside meal.
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Access exclusive behind-the-scenes areas of the Sydney Opera House and enjoy breakfast in the Green Room.
Access exclusive behind-the-scenes areas of the Sydney Opera House and enjoy breakfast in the Green Room.
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2026-01-03
2026-03-25
2 hr 40 min with 1 interval
Suitable for all ages
Madama Butterfly in Sydney is Puccini’s sweeping tale of Cio-Cio-San, a young woman whose hopes for a new life collide with the indifference of U.S. naval officer Pinkerton. Driven by Puccini’s richly textured score, from the fragile lyricism of the Humming Chorus to the operatic heights of Un bel dì, the opera offers an emotionally direct experience that resonates long after the final scene. This Sydney season revives Moffatt Oxenbould’s award-winning staging, known for its floating-flower moat, sliding shoji screens, and design inspired by Japanese aesthetics. International talents, including Guanqun Yu, Vittoria Yeo, Olivia Cranwell, Oreste Cosimo, and Robert Watson, lead the cast, joined by Australian Opera regulars under the batons of Andrea Battistoni, Erina Yashima, and Paul Fitzsimon. With strong critical acclaim across seasons, this revival continues to draw both long-time opera lovers and first-timers.
Set in early 20th-century Nagasaki, Madama Butterfly follows Cio-Cio-San, a young woman who believes her marriage to American officer Pinkerton will bring stability and respect. Their bond, however, is built on unequal expectations: her devotion contrasts with his casual detachment. As she builds a future around his promised return, those around her warn of the dangers of misplaced faith. Across ritual, silence, and anticipation, the opera builds toward a devastating confrontation between hope and reality. When Pinkerton’s ship finally returns to port, Cio-Cio-San must face a truth she has long refused to see. Will her resolve hold when everything she built begins to fracture?
Show timings for Madama Butterfly may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
The Joan Sutherland Theater is one of Australia’s premier opera venues, known for its warm acoustics, timber-lined interiors, and intimate horseshoe layout that brings audiences close to the drama onstage. Located inside the iconic Sydney Opera House, it has hosted major productions from Opera Australia, including La Traviata, Turandot, and Carmen. Its history, world-class staging capabilities, and distinctive architectural design make it a fitting home for emotionally charged operas.
The Joan Sutherland Theater seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Available facilities: restrooms, cloakroom, Bars, foyer lounges, water refill stations, café, onsite dining at the Opera House precinct
Accessibility: accessible restrooms, companion seating, Wheelchair-accessible seating, lift access, hearing-assist devices, step-free routes, mobility drop-off points near the forecourt
Q- How much do tickets to the Madama Butterfly opera in Sydney cost?
A- The cost of the tickets starts from AU$108 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
Q- What age is the opera appropriate for?
A- The opera does not have a strict age limit, it is suitable for all ages. However, the production contains some adult themes.
Q- Where is the opera playing in Sydney?
A- The opera is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater in Sydney.
Q- What is Madama Butterfly about?
A- It follows Cio-Cio-San, whose marriage to U.S. naval officer Pinkerton leads to a profound clash between devotion and disillusionment.
Q- How long does the opera run for?
A- The running time is 2 hours and 40 minutes with one intermission.
Q- Is the production sung in Italian?
A- Yes. It is performed in Italian with English surtitles.
Q- Who are the main stars of Madama Butterfly?
A- The main stars of the opera are Guanqun Yu as Cio-Cio-San, Vittoria Yeo as Cio-Cio-San, Olivia Cranwell as Cio-Cio-San, Robert Watson as Pinkerton, Oreste Cosimo as Pinkerton, Sian Sharp as Suzuki, Angela Hogan as Suzuki, Samuel Dundas as Sharpless, Luke Gabbedy as Sharpless, Warwick Fyfe as Sharpless, Virgilio Marino as Goro, and Michael Petruccelli as Goro.
Q- What are some popular songs in the musical?
A- Highlights include Un bel dì, the Humming Chorus, the wedding scene, and the final confrontation between Cio-Cio-San and Pinkerton.
Q- Is the production suitable for first-time opera-goers?
A- Yes. Its clear storytelling, emotional score, and visually striking staging make it accessible to newcomers.
Q- Does the production use traditional Japanese elements?
A- Yes. Costumes, staging, and movement draw from Japanese motifs, supported by sliding shoji screens and a water-filled moat onstage.
Q- What makes this production distinctive?
A- The combination of Oxenbould’s classic staging, candlelit water features, and Puccini’s powerful score makes it one of Opera Australia’s most enduring presentations.
This revival of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly opera in Sydney pairs Moffatt Oxenbould’s acclaimed staging with an international lineup of sopranos and tenors, supported by conductors Andrea Battistoni, Erina Yashima, and Paul Fitzsimon. Returning to the Joan Sutherland Theater, the production features its celebrated onstage moat, candlelit sequences, and traditional-inspired design. With standout arias, elegant movement direction, and strong critical praise, it remains one of opera’s most powerful tragedies.
https://www.headout.com/blog/joan-sutherland-theatre-seating-plan/
https://maps.app.goo.gl/7iYGQAqX67Qt5kceA
2026-01-27
2026-02-28
2 hr 5 min with 1 interval
Suitable for all ages
Hansel and Gretel blends the dark charm of the Brothers Grimm tale with Engelbert Humperdinck’s romantic, folk-inspired score to create a uniquely enchanting opera experience. First staged by Opera Australia under Elijah Moshinsky’s direction, this revival brings back his signature surreal, storybook world, enhanced by Mark Thompson’s imaginative sets and costumes and Nigel Levings’ evocative lighting.
An accomplished Australian cast leads the production, with Margaret Plummer (Hansel) and Stacey Alleaume (Gretel) bringing warmth and wit to the siblings, while Jane Ede delighting as the wicked Witch. Tahu Matheson conducts the Opera Australia Orchestra, drawing out the work’s rich orchestrations and lyrical beauty. Performed in English, this is a charming entry point for families and newcomers, as well as a nostalgic treat for opera lovers.
Deep in the woods, siblings Hansel and Gretel wander far from home in search of food. As night falls, their hunger and fear grow, until a house made of sweets appears, along with a seemingly kind old woman. But this fairytale quickly turns dangerous when the siblings discover her true intentions. What follows is a test of courage and cleverness in a world where danger hides behind sugar-coated walls. Book your Hansel and Gretel Sydney tickets to find out if they can outwit the witch.
Show timings for Hansel and Gretel may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
The Joan Sutherland Theater is located inside the iconic Sydney Opera House, and is one of Australia’s premier venues for opera, ballet, and large-scale musical productions. This intimate yet grand space offers exceptional acoustics and sightlines. Named after Australia’s legendary soprano, it has hosted world-class productions including La Traviata, Carmen, and Madama Butterfly. Its elegant proscenium arch and state-of-the-art technical facilities make it the perfect setting for visually spectacular and musically rich performances.
The Joan Sutherland Theater seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Available facilities: elevator, restrooms, bar, cloakroom, restaurant, lounge
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, hearing assistance, accessible restrooms, companion seating, accessible parking spaces
Q- How much do the Hansel and Gretel Sydney tickets cost?
A- The cost of the tickets starts from AU$98.75 and will vary depending on the type of seats you choose.
Q- What age is the opera appropriate for?
A- The opera does not have a strict age limit. It is suitable for all ages.
Q- Where is the opera playing in Sydney?
A- The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House.
Q- What is Hansel and Gretel about?
A- The opera follows siblings Hansel and Gretel, who wander into the forest and encounter a magical gingerbread house, and a witch who isn’t as sweet as she seems.
Q- How long does the opera run for?
A- The running time is 2 hours and 5 minutes with one intermission.
Q- Who are the main stars of the opera?
A- The main stars of the opera are Margaret Plummer as Hansel, Stacey Alleaume as Gretel, Helen Sherman as Gertrude, Andrew Moran as Peter, Jane Ede as The Witch, Kathryn Williams as Dew Fairy and Shikara Ringdahl as Sandman.
Q- Who composed the music for this opera?
A- The score was composed by Engelbert Humperdinck. It’s famous for weaving German folk tunes into a lush romantic orchestration.
Q- Will there be surtitles during the opera?
A- Yes. English surtitles are displayed throughout, even though the performance is in English, ensuring all lyrics are clear to the audience.
Hansel and Gretel brings the classic Grimm tale to life through Elijah Moshinsky’s imaginative direction, Mark Thompson’s fantastical designs, and Humperdinck’s folk-inspired score. Featuring a stellar Australian cast led by Margaret Plummer, Stacey Alleaume, and Jane Ede, this Opera Australia production at the Joan Sutherland Theater blends whimsy, wit, and operatic brilliance.
https://www.headout.com/blog/sydney-opera-house-joan-sutherland-theatre-seating-plan/
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZsQy7mAVMKc8GY2a8
Step inside the Sydney Opera House for a guided tour exploring its iconic architecture and history.
Step inside the Sydney Opera House for a guided tour exploring its iconic architecture and history.
Inclusions
Exclusions
2026-03-28
1 hr 30 min with 1 interval
Suitable for 15+ yrs
Great Opera Hits is a celebrated concert series by Opera Australia, held inside the Joan Sutherland Theater at the Sydney Opera House. Designed to introduce audiences to the magic of opera, it features a curated program of arias and duets from legendary composers like Bizet, Puccini, Rossini, and Verdi. The show stars leading Australian opera performers, accompanied by a single pianist, a format that focuses attention on the raw vocal power and storytelling of each piece. Directed by Shaun Rennie through October, this production combines artistry with Sydney’s stunning harbour backdrop, offering audiences a relaxed yet refined concert experience. The show has become a staple in the Sydney cultural calendar, praised for its accessibility and outstanding vocal performances.
Show timings for Great Opera Hits 2026 may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
The Joan Sutherland Theater is one of the two main performance venues inside the Sydney Opera House. Originally known as the Opera Theatre, it was renamed in 2012 to honour Australia’s legendary soprano Dame Joan Sutherland. The theatre features a traditional proscenium arch stage with exceptional acoustics designed specifically for opera and ballet. Over the years, it has hosted renowned productions by Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet, making it one of the most prestigious performance spaces in the country.
The Joan Sutherland Theater seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Available facilities: restrooms, bar, cloakroom, restaurant, lounge, elevator
Accessibility: wheelchair accessible, accessible restrooms, companion seating, hearing assistance, accessible parking spaces
Q- What age is the show appropriate for?
A- The show does not have a strict age limit. However, it is most suitable for children aged 15 years and above.
Q- Where is Great Opera Hits 2026 playing in Sydney?
A- The show is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House in Sydney.
Q- What is the show about?
A- This opera highlights concert features some of opera’s greatest arias from Bizet, Puccini, Rossini, Verdi, and more, performed by Opera Australia’s top singers.
Q- How long does the show run for?
A- The running time is 1 hour and 30 minutes with a 20-minute intermission.
Q- What type of music will I hear at the show?
A- You’ll enjoy famous arias and ensembles from composers like Bizet, Puccini, Rossini, and Verdi, performed by some of Opera Australia’s finest singers.
Q- Will there be surtitles or translations during the performance?
A- Yes. English and simplified Chinese surtitles are projected above the stage, so you can follow the meaning of the arias as they’re performed.
Q- Who performs in the show?
A- The program features a rotating cast of Opera Australia’s leading singers, accompanied by a pianist. Each concert may feature different artists, making every performance unique.
Q- Is the show suitable for first-time opera-goers?
A- Absolutely. The relaxed format and well-known arias make it an excellent introduction to opera.
Q- Are the arias performed in their original languages?
A- Yes, they’re sung in their original languages (mainly Italian and French), maintaining their authentic character.
Q- Will I recognise any of the pieces if I’ve never been to the opera?
A- Quite possibly! Many arias, like those from Carmen (Bizet) and La Bohème (Puccini), are widely known through films, commercials, and popular culture.
Great Opera Hits 2026 gathers Opera Australia’s leading singers for a 90-minute sunset concert at the Joan Sutherland Theater. Directed by Shaun Rennie, this celebrated series features iconic works by Bizet, Puccini, Rossini, and Verdi, performed with piano accompaniment. It’s a relaxed yet world-class showcase, blending musical excellence with Sydney’s breathtaking harbor views.
https://www.headout.com/blog/sydney-opera-house-joan-sutherland-theatre-seating-plan/
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZsQy7mAVMKc8GY2a8
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2026-01-15
2026-03-27
2 hr 25 min with 1 interval
Suitable for all ages
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.
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 for Turandot may vary every week. You can check the show timings for your preferred date at the next stage of booking.
Leading roles:
Conductor:
Director & choreographer: Ann Yee
Set designer: Elizabeth Gadsby
Costume designer: David Fleischer
Lighting designer: Paul Jackson
Video designer: Andrew Thomas Huang
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
The Joan Sutherland Theater, located inside the Sydney Opera House, is one of Australia’s premier venues for opera, ballet, and large-scale musical productions. This intimate yet grand space offers exceptional acoustics and sightlines. Named after Australia’s legendary soprano, it has hosted world-class productions including La Traviata, Carmen, and Madama Butterfly. Its elegant proscenium arch and state-of-the-art technical facilities make it the perfect setting for visually spectacular and musically rich performances.
The Joan Sutherland Theater seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Available facilities: Restrooms, bar, cloakroom, restaurant, lounge, elevator
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, accessible restrooms, companion seating, hearing assistance, accessible parking spaces
Q- What age is Turandot appropriate for?
A- 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.
Q- Where is the opera playing in Sydney?
A- The opera is playing at the Joan Sutherland Theater inside the Sydney Opera House.
Q- What is the opera about?
A- 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.
Q- How long does the opera run for?
A- The running time is 2 hours and 25 minutes with one intermission.
Q- Who are the main stars of Turandot?
A- 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.
Q- What language is the opera performed in?
A- The performance is in Italian, with English surtitles displayed above the stage.
Q- Is this a good choice for first-time opera-goers?
A- Yes. With its legendary music, gripping story, and spectacular staging, Turandot is one of the most accessible and visually stunning operas for newcomers.
Puccini’s Turandot storms Sydney in a dazzling new production directed by Ann Yee. Starring sopranos Rebecca Nash and Anna-Louise Cole, alongside tenor Young Woo Kim, this limited-run opera features monumental staging, mesmerizing choreography, and the iconic aria Nessun dorma. With four distinguished conductors and a world-class creative team, it’s a highlight of Australia’s opera season.
https://www.headout.com/blog/sydney-opera-house-joan-sutherland-theatre-seating-plan/
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZsQy7mAVMKc8GY2a8
Learn the fascinating story behind Jørn Utzon’s daring design, the construction challenges, and how the Opera House became a global icon.
Step into backstage areas, rehearsal rooms, and hidden corners that are usually off-limits to the public.
Discover how the signature shell-like sails were engineered, why construction took 14 years, and what makes its modern expressionist design so revolutionary.
Stand on stages like the Concert Hall and Drama Theatre, where world-renowned artists and local performers bring the building to life.
Explore secret spots inside and around the Opera House that make for stunning photos and breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.
Step into one of the world’s most breathtaking performance spaces, with cathedral-like ceilings and state-of-the-art acoustics. Seats over 2,600 in the round and 2,100 facing the stage, and was recently upgraded in July 2022 to enhance its charm and functionality.
Most guided tours last around 1 hour, giving you enough time to explore the main performance halls and learn about the Opera House’s history and architecture. You can also check our About page for more background.
Guided tours take you inside venues like the Concert Hall, Playhouse, and Joan Sutherland Theatre. You’ll also hear stories about the Opera House’s architecture and design.
Yes, guided walking tours are offered in several languages including English, Mandarin, Japanese, French, German, Korean, and Spanish.
Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. For the best planning, see our Sydney Opera House timings page.
Tickets start at around AU$35 for adults. Prices vary by tour type, whether it’s a standard guided tour, an architecture tour, or the backstage experience.
Yes, many visitors choose to pair their tour with a concert, play, or opera. Browse the current lineup on our Sydney Opera House shows page.
Arrive 10–15 minutes early, wear comfortable shoes, and bring your e-voucher for smooth entry. Find more practical tips on our Plan Your Visit page.
Gerardo
Mingwei
Russell
Quocviet
Gregory
Paul
Kim
Wayne
