OA has four shows on the go. First up is an abridged, English-language version of Massenet’s Cinderella (Cendrillon) in the visually ravishing, frequently hilarious production by Laurent Pelly. Then there’s Sarah Giles’ thoughtful take on La traviata and Dean Bryant’s staging of Bernstein’s sparkling Candide (with Eddie Perfect as the relentlessly optimistic Dr Pangloss). The jewel in the crown might well be a physically adventurous staging of Purcell’s Dido & Aeneas from Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz (seen last year at Opera Queensland). Conducted by Erin Helyard, Anna Dowsley and Nicholas Jones star, with Kanen Breen as the First Witch and Mercury.

Limelight Editor’s Choice

Feel the magic of Laurent Pelly’s whimsical production of Cinderella. After packed-out runs at the Metropolitan Opera of New York and Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, this acclaimed staging of Cinderella makes a grand Australian debut.

Massenet’s classic opera has long delighted audiences with its sumptuous music and big heart. This production adds a delightful dash of humour with playful choreography and extravagant costumes in outrageous shapes and sizes. Barbara de Limburg’s extraordinary set is a pop-up storybook world inspired by an original illustrated edition of the fairy tale, complete with fold-out balcony and paper-cut carriage.

Performed in English, this crowd-pleasing production is perfect for newcomers, but opera-lovers are in for a royal treat. Massenet’s score offers plenty of opportunities for the cast to show off. Rising star Emily Edmonds, audience favourite Emma Matthews and internationally renowned Australian mezzo soprano Margaret Plummer will relish the comedy and poignancy of the score.