The Canberra-based National Opera has announced the appointment of Sonia Anfiloff as its new Artistic Director. She succeeds Peter Coleman-Wright, who launched and helmed the company from 2020.

Returning from almost a decade of performing in Vienna, and with extensive experience in both performance and music education, Anfiloff also has deep roots in the Canberra community. She is a graduate of the Canberra School of Music, a voice teacher and examiner at the ANU School of Music and as Head of Choirs at Canberra Girls Grammar School has been an influential force within the ACT arts.

Sonia Anfiloff. Photo supplied

“Canberra is not a linear city; audiences here crave more music and are eager to support quality productions, particularly when it highlights our local singers,” Anfiloff said.

“This is an open and liberal city for art and creativity, making it the perfect place for National Opera to innovate and find new ways to bring opera to the forefront. It’s not just about the city – it’s about supporting our local singers by giving them meaningful opportunities to perform, develop their skills, and thrive.”

Under Coleman-Wright’s guidance, the notion of the ‘Pocket Opera’...