Opera in the Bowl

Most operatic scores are crafted to take advantage of the confines and acoustic properties of the world's best opera houses. There is nothing like a full orchestra and ensemble filling every nook and cranny of a theatre with glorious sound.

But there's something about an alfresco night of classical music that really sets the heart racing. That's why Opera Australia is returning to the Sidney Myer Music Bowl on November 30 for a free concert of opera's greatest hits. Orchestra Victoria will be joined by Opera Australia favourites, sopranos Stacey Alleaume and Anna-Louise Cole, mezzo Anna Dowsley, baritone Jose Carbo and Italian tenor Walter Fraccaro. 

Expect to hear a bunch of tunes that you know by heart, even if you don't know where they're from. The orchestra will play the iconic overtures from Carmen and William Tell, and there'll be popular arias including the soaring 'Nessun Dorma' and even the famous duet from The Pearlfishers.

The gates open at 4pm before the concert at 8pm, so get in early to nab a good spot. You're welcome to bring your own food and booze (you can bring bottles, but glass drinking glasses are prohibited) or grab dinner from one of the food trucks on site.