Orpheus and Eurydice — Opera Queensland and Circa

Overview

Operatic voices and acrobatic contortions rarely go hand in hand. When tenors and sopranos are belting out their booming best, you don't often see circus stars getting physical on the stage. And, you definitely don't usually witness folks from the two artforms teaming up to bring a Greek myth to life.

Thanks to a collaboration between Opera Queensland and Circa, that's what Orpheus and Eurydice offers. Eight acrobats will leap and bound as only they can, while counter tenor Owen Willetts and soprano Natalie Christie Peluso will sing — and the end result promises quite the spectacular show. Love contemporary circus and always been intrigued about opera? Adore the latter but never really engaged with the former? Whichever description suits you (and even if you're a newcomer to both), prepare for a winning combo.

Running from Thursday, October 24 to Saturday, November 9 at the QPAC Playhouse, Orpheus and Eurydice tells the tale of the god of music, his beloved bride, and the journey he must take into the underworld to save her. It dates back to ancient history, and his quest comes with a twist: if he takes her home, he can't look into her eyes.

As well as opera and circus, the production will feature video as well — because this genre mash-up just keeps going.

Image:  Iñaki Zaldua.