Opera Australia Is Bringing 'West Side Story' to Sydney Harbour's Floating Stage

The classic Broadway tale of star-crossed lovers hits the Handa Opera stage next March
Libby Curran
July 11, 2018

Sydney Harbour is set to experience a taste of Broadway magic, circa 1957, when Handa Opera's famed floating stage plays host to legendary musical, West Side Story.

Lighting up the unique waterfront opera venue from March 22 until April 21 next year, the Opera Australia production features homegrown talents Alexander Lewis and Julie Lea Goodwin reimagining the classic tale of star-crossed lovers in 1950s New York City.

It tells the story of two rival West Side gangs and the drama that ensues when youngsters from each side fall in love. Acclaimed director Francesca Zambello, along with Brian Thomson and Jennifer Irwin, have created a new take on the original Broadway favourite, based on Arthur Laurent's famed novel.

You'll get to watch this captivating show brought to life under the stars, from harbourside seats at Mrs Macquaries Point, bopping along to all the musical's iconic hit songs — I Feel Pretty, Maria, Somewhere, America, Cool and of course, Tonight.

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour boasts a reputation as one of the world's best open-air opera venues, with Carmen, Aida and La Bohème just some of the hits to grace its stage in recent years.

West Side Story on Sydney Harbour will run from March 22–April 21, 2019. Tickers are available as part of an Opera Australia subscription package from August 16, and single tickets from September 3.

Image: Hamilton Lund, 'Carmen'

Published on July 11, 2018 by Libby Curran
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