Tuesday, 16 December 2014

DESIGNS REVEALED FOR HANDA OPERA ON SYDNEY HARBOUR: AIDA

Opera Australia this week unveiled the spectacular set and costume designs for the 2015 production of Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour: Aida.

The magnificent stage design features a monumental head of Queen Nefertiti, presented as an historical ruin. Lighting will morph the look of the 18 metre tall stage element, with changing colours, innovative lighting designs and fireworks creating special effects for the open air stage.

Designer Mark Thompson said hundreds of stunning African and Ethiopian fabrics have been sourced for the costumes, which will make for a clash of bright patterns and a riot of colour.

“Worn by a massive cast of singers and dancers, these fabrics will become stunning strapless dresses with towering head wraps, bustles and enormous wrapped shawls, which move in the breeze and wrap the stage like a human work of art,” Mr Thompson said.

The African-inspired theme will be reflected throughout the event pop-up site designed by Eamon Darcy. Fresh Catering will create dining options inspired by the production, from fine dining amongst the trees at the Platinum Club to casual bar dining and themed snacks.

NSW Deputy Premier, Minister for Tourism and Major Events and Minister for the Arts Troy Grant had the honour of unveiling the set model, and said the scale and imagery was befitting of Verdi’s grand opera.

“Over the past three years, Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour has established a reputation for its awe-inspiring set and costume design with Sydney Harbour as a spectacular backdrop and Aida in 2015 will be no exception,” Mr Grant said.

“The NSW Government has been a proud supporter of Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour since 2012 through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, and we look forward to continuing this partnership and seeing the event continue to astound audiences over the next three years,” he said.

Aida runs from 27 March to 26 April 2015. Tickets start at $79 and travel packages are available through Wotif. For further information go to the Opera Australia website at opera.org.au.

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