Critics have applauded the soprano's touching assumption of Puccini's seamstress.

NAVA Executive Director Esther Anatolitis has called for the money, which was diverted to a ‘special project’ by the Arts Minister, to be returned to artists immediately.

Minister Don Harwin ignored independent advice, redirecting funds to a ‘special project’, according to an investigation by the ABC.

The $5000 scholarship allows five artists to undertake career boosting projects.

Liam Scarlett premieres a full-length Dangerous Liaisons, Bespoke creates contemporary dance for the digital ages, while several favourites return.

Tasty treasures from China, a large-scale Duchamp exhibition and the Kaldor Public Art Projects’ 50th birthday among the highlights on the AGNSW’s 2019 season.

Highlights include new full-length ballets by Graeme Murphy and Stanton Welch, Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo in Lac, and a new Resident Choreographer.

The Managing Director, who took up the position in late 2015, will leave effective immediately.

The tenor was unable to sing after interval, walking the role as his cover sang from the wings.

The 33-year-old Swiss-Australian conductor adds another feather to her cap with this latest engagement.

Life looks busy for the young conductor with new positions at Sydney Chamber Choir, Christ Church of St Laurence, and Gondwana Choirs.

The sum will help further her research and composition work over a five-year period.