Based on Oscar Wilde’s 1891 banned play of the same name, Richard Strauss’ interpretation of this taboo-breaking biblical tale of sex and death returns to the Sydney stage for the first time since its premiere in 2012.
Described as “highly eccentric, even vulgar… also compelling, effective and deeply dramatic” (Sydney Morning Herald, 2012), this intense production powerfully conveys the spirit of Strauss’s phenomenal score and boldly explores the degeneracy of lust without limits.
Superstar American soprano Lise Lindstrom will bring her commanding stage presence to the titular role. Considered one of the world’s greatest interpreters of Salome, her vocal power and intensity will provide the perfect instrument to take on this famously taxing part.
Lindstrom will perform alongside German tenor Andreas Conrad as the depraved King Herod. A regular performer at the Bayreuth Festival, Conrad will bring his talent to a role that is both theatrically and musically demanding.
Joining them onstage will be Australian favourite, mezzo soprano Jacqueline Dark, reprising the role of the malevolent Herodias and bass-baritone Alexander Krasnov, who will make his Opera Australia debut as the ill-fated Jokanaan.
Conductor Johannes Fritzsch will make his long awaited return to Opera Australia, leading a grand scale orchestra through Strauss’ entrancing score filled with exotic melodies and enticing rhythms, including the pivotal Dance of the Seven Veils, choreographed by renowned Australian choreographer, Kelley Abbey.
The production’s carnal ambiance is delivered by the design dream team; set designer Brian Thomson, costume designer Julie Lynch and lighting designer John Rayment. A visceral display of carcass backdrops, seductive costumes and chilling lighting provide a rich visual and emphasise the depravity on stage.
Conductor: Johannes Fritzsch Director: Gale Edwards Featuring: Lise Lindstrom, Jacqueline Dark, Andreas Conrad, Paul O’Neill, Alexander Krasnov, Sian Pendry, Virgilio Marino, Brad Cooper, Benjamin Rasheed, John Longmuir, Andrew Moran, Gennadi Dubinsky, Alexander Hargreaves, David Parkin, Christopher Hillier, Opera Australia Orchestra Revival Director: Andy Morton Set Designer: Brian Thomson Lighting Designer: John Rayment Choreographer: Kelley Abbey
Salome
Joan Sutherland Theatre – Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point
Season continues to 26 March 2019
Bookings: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
For more information, visit: www.opera.org.au for details.
Image: Lise Lindstrom as Salome in Opera Australia’s 2019 production of Salome at the Sydney Opera House – photo by Prudence Upton