Mozart opera to sing out in April

LYSTER Opera has been performing beloved classics and lesser-known gems across regional Victoria since 2016, and will present an opera by Mozart in Drysdale next month.

Following a highly successful performance of Rossini’s The Italian Girl in Algiers at The Potato Shed last year, the company will return to the venue with The Abduction from the Seraglio.

Mozart’s opera, composed in 1782, follows Belmonte, a man determined to rescue his beloved Constanze from the harem of Pasha Selim, with the help of his loyal servant Pedrillo.

The opera boasts a lively ensemble, stunning sets and costumes, and a fast-paced storyline, all set to some of Mozart’s most challenging and thrilling music.

The company was established by in honour of William Saurin Lyster (1828-1880), an Irish entrepreneur who played a pioneering role in introducing opera to Australia.

Founder, bass-baritone and historian Jamie Moffat said he selected The Abduction from the Seraglio because, based on his experience, regional audiences were particularly open to exploring lesser-known operas.

He said Lyster’s 2024 tour of Flotow’s Martha, which was the first professional production in Victoria in more than 60 years, was enthusiastically received.

“I embarked on the journey of recreating the original Lyster Company’s model of touring small country towns and presenting grand operas because I truly believe that opera should be for everyone.

“Our company’s mission is to make opera accessible to all, at a price everyone can afford. The enjoyment of great music should never be limited by where you live.

?We were so overwhelmed by the reception we received at The Potato Shed on our last tour, that we really hope to be able to include it in our regular rotation. It’s a perfect venue for us, and the reception from the audience was so enthusiastic.”

Lyster Opera collaborates with both established and up-and-coming professional singers and musicians.

The cast for this production includes tenor Hew Wagner as Belmonte, soprano Rebecca Rashleigh as Blonde, Sarah Jane Pattichis as Konstanze, Alastair Cooper Golec as Pedrillo, Moffat (who will also direct) as Osmin, and Chris Broadstock as Pasha Selim.

The production features new sets designed by Blair Parkinson and costumes designed by Maddy Connellan.

The Abduction from the Seraglio will be performed at The Potato Shed on April 5 at 2pm.For tickets or more information on other venues, phone 0410 890 388 or head to lysteropera.com.au, or phone The Potato Shed box office on 5251 1998.