Set in bayside Melbourne at the time of Federation, Stella is the story of a nurse ruined by suburban hypocrisy, brought to life through music of great power and beauty. Composed in 1908, it was the first opera set in Melbourne.
Lyric Opera’s production celebrates Marshall-Hall’s important role in developing Melbourne’s arts scene and marks 100 years since the composer’s passing. His achievements include founding and directing the first significant orchestra and concert series in the city, and becoming the first chair of music at the University of Melbourne.
Marshall-Hall was famously dismissed from his role after falling out with the University’s establishment. Stella is allegorically based on his experience in Melbourne and at the University.
Bringing Stella out of the shadows in a cultural homage to the Melbourne community, Artistic Director and Conductor Pat Miller said, “As part of our history, Stella deserves to be part of our future”.
Making her Lyric Opera debut, Lee Abrahmsen takes the title role of Stella, leading a superb local cast including Carolyn Vercoe, Roberto Barbaro and Matthew Thomas.
With a small cast and a performance lasting 90 minutes, this intimate and accessible opera will feature lighting design by Greenroom award winner, Rob Sowinski, and costume designs by Sam Fisher from Melbourne’s Tanner and Teague.
The new stage production of Stella is in partnership with the University of Melbourne who published the opera in 1992 and presented a concert in 1996. The university is also presenting a mini-symposium on Marshall-Hall and his opera on September 12th at the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music. Ticket holders for performances of Stella will receive a free pass to attend this symposium.
Stella is the first in Lyric’s Australian Opera Series and is an opportunity to see our history brought to life through wonderful music and singing, in an intimate and dynamic production.
Stella will be performed on September 25th, 26th, 28th and 30th starting at 8pm, at the David Williamson Theatre, located off Chapel and High Streets in Prahran.
For more information and tickets, head to www.lyricopera.com.au.
Artistic Director and Conductor, Pat Miller
