A timeless opera love story comes to Geelong

LYSTER Opera will present Christoph Willibald Gluck’s Orphée et Eurydice at The Court House Theatre next week as part of the company’s 2026 regional Victorian tour.

One of the great works of the operatic repertoire, Orphée et Eurydice tells the story of Orpheus, who journeys to the underworld in an attempt to bring his beloved Eurydice back to life.

Allowed to lead her home on the condition that he does not look at her, Orphée must face doubt, love and loss as the story unfolds.

Gluck’s score moves from the terrifying presence of the Furies to the calm beauty of Elysium, creating a work of strong contrasts and deep emotional power.

This production offers a clear, engaging telling of the story, supported by evocative sets by Blair Parkinson and detailed costumes by Maddy Connellan, creating a strong visual world that enhances the drama without overwhelming it.

The title role is sung by acclaimed tenor Paul Biencourt, who brings vocal strength and emotional depth to one of opera’s most demanding roles.

The opera famously includes one of the repertoire’s greatest arias, Orphée’s lament for Eurydice, a moment of heartbreaking simplicity that remains instantly recognisable even to those new to opera.

While the Orpheus myth continues to inspire new adaptations, Gluck’s emotionally direct and profoundly human setting remains the definitive operatic interpretation.

Musical direction is by Pamela Christie, leading a chamber orchestra that brings clarity, momentum and warmth to Gluck’s elegant score.

Sung in French with English subtitles, Orphée et Eurydice is an ideal introduction for newcomers to opera, while offering opera lovers the chance to experience a masterpiece in an intimate theatre setting.

Now in its 10th year, Lyster Opera is known for touring high-quality professional opera to regional communities across Victoria, with a strong commitment to accessibility and audience connection.

For the first time, the company is touring with a full chamber orchestra, bringing new musical depth and immediacy to this landmark work.

Orphée et Eurydice tours regional Victoria between February and April, with the performance at The Court House Theatre in Geelong offering audiences the opportunity to experience one of opera’s great masterpieces – performed live, locally and at an accessible price.

The opera will be peformed on February 14 at 2pm.

For tickets, head to lysteropera.com.au or phone 0410 890 388.