State Opera Of South Australia Presents THE PEARL FISHERS

Audiences will be transported to an exotic bygone era when the State Opera of South Australia presents The Pearl Fishers at the Adelaide Festival Theatre from May 12-19.

Composed by Georges Bizet, the opera is set in colonial Ceylon and tells the story of two life-long friends who swear to never let the love of a woman break their bond. However, the arrival of mysterious priestess for the pearl harvest threatens to drive a wedge between the duo.

Accompanied by the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, this classic story of love, jealousy and temptation features one of opera's most popular and beautiful duets - In the depths of the temple - about the power of friendship.

Conductor Graham Abbott said the impressive line-up of Australian opera talent includes baritone Grant Doyle, tenor Andrew Goodwin, bass Pelham Andrews and rising star soprano Desiree Frahn.

"We have a fabulous cast of local and guest performers who have come together to bring this wonderfully romantic and emotive opera to the Festival Theatre stage," Mr Abbott said.

"Even though The Pearl Fishers was written more than 100 years ago, it's a story that modern audiences will identify with because it's essentially about a love triangle with a lot of complications thrown into the mix."

First performed in 1863, The Pearl Fishers was one of Bizet's earlier compositions before his hugely popular final work, Carmen.

This spectacular new production is directed by Michael Gow with sets and costumes designed by Robert Kemp.

The Pearl Fishers is the State Opera's first production since welcoming new executive director Yarmila Alfonzetti earlier this year.

All performances are at 7.30pm on the following dates: Saturday, May 12; Tuesday, May 15; Thursday, May 17, and Saturday, May 19.

For more information, please visit saopera.sa.gov.au or phone (08) 8226 4790.

Tickets start from $60 and are available via BASS at http://www.bass.net.au/events/sosa-the-pearl-fishers or phone 131 246.

State Opera of South Australia presents The Pearl Fishers

Venue: Adelaide Festival Theatre

Dates: Saturday, May 12, Tuesday, May 15, Thursday, May 17 and Saturday, May 19

Time: All performances at 7.30pm

To post a comment, you must register and login.