A Little Night Music

Overview

According to Madame Armfeldt in Stephen Sondheim's 1970s smash A Little Night Music, the summer night smiles three times— once at the young, who know nothing, once at the fools, who know too little, and once at the old, who know too much.

There's a touch of irony in Victorian Opera's decision to stage A Little Night Music, built around the contemplation of a summer evening, at the onset of winter. But there is also comfort to be found in Sondheim's familiar (read — classic) musical. First, in the story, in which, at the turn of the 20th century, a number of couples find their romantic pursuits entangling other players. Also, in the music, a Sondheim masterclass on the elasticity of the waltz (including heavy hitters like 'Send in the Clowns'). And, finally, in the unseasonable warmth of director Stuart Maunders' cast, with Ali McGregor, Simon Gleeson, Verity Hunt-Ballard, Alinta Chidzey and Nancy Hayes.

If you can brave the cold and make it to the Arts Centre Melbourne's Playhouse, A Little Night Music will undoubtedly generate a cheerier glow than your struggling three-bar heater this winter.

A Little Night Music will run from Thursday, June 27 to Saturday, July 6 at Art Centre Melbourne's Playhouse. To purchase tickets, head to Victorian Opera's website.