Opera Australia has wheeled out Graeme Murphy’s production of Turandot once again, and though it’s now nearly 30 years old there’s still plenty to like about its dramatic movement, interpretation of space and splashes of colour. A talented trio of internationals interpret the principal roles, including Lise Lindstrom. Surprisingly, her Turandot is vocally tepid at first, but ultimately the American dramatic soprano sweeps all before her.

Lise Lindstrom and Graeme Macfarlane in Opera Australia’s Turandot. Photo © Jeff Busby

Puccini’s last opera, Turandot premiered in Milan in 1926 (two years after his death; Franco Alfano composed the final scene based on Puccini’s sketches). Set in Imperial China, it centres on the title character, a man-hating princess who poses riddles for her suitors. Many have tried, failed and been executed, yet Calaf, the son of exiled King Timur, presents himself for the test. He ignores the protests of his father, the slave Liù who loves Calaf from afar, and the Emperor’s ministers, who are weary of the chaos caused by Turandot.

Lindstrom is in her element as the icy princess. She is a still, imperious figure staring down her nose throughout, but for the confused...