The Melbourne Opera is bringing Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg back to the stage as the event of a lifetime.
Renowned for its demanding nature and lush musicality, The Melbourne Opera is conquering Wagner’s only comedy Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg. The opera will run four shows from the 16th to the 22nd of February at the iconic Royal Exhibition Building. Tickets are out now, so be sure to get in quickly and secure your spot at this exclusive experience.
Led by the talents of director Suzanne Chaundy and conductor Anthony Negus, Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg is sure to be sublime. Keeping the momentum from their award-winning 2023 regional tour of Wagner’s The Ring Cycle, this opera is in the hands of creative masters.
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg
- Performance by the Melbourne Opera
- February 16, 18, 20 and 22
- Royal Exhibition Building
- Tickets are on sale now
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A somewhat ‘meta’ musical performance about music itself, this opera explores the arduous pursuit of art and creativity. It explores ideas of creative passion and innovation while also presenting the battle of balancing the respect of tradition.
This opera-comedy is complex and rich, sparking laughter whilst pulling at the heartstrings. Considering it was written in the late 1860s, Wagner’s work remains strikingly relatable to modern audiences.
Chaundy reflects, “In our current age of dehumanization, this production will be proudly and profoundly human.” Featuring a cast of over 200 accomplished performers, the Melbourne Opera certainly drives the “huge life force and energy” Chaundy speaks of in this opera.
The performance stars the talented Warwick Fyke in the leading role of Hans Sachs, whose lauded vocal prowess as a bass-baritone within Wagner’s repertoire is perfect for navigating the stringent vocal demands and emotional complexity of his character.
Not to mention, this vast cast of performers is studded with opera royalty; featuring performances from Aussie greats like James Egglestone, Christopher Hillier, Lee Abrahmsen, Robert Macfarlane and more.
Chaundy’s assertion that “our Meistersinger will be an event: not at all like a normal night at the opera” cannot be truer. This performance will be a truly immersive experience.
The Melbourne Opera has spared no expense for this multi-million dollar production. Celebrated set designer Andrew Bailey specifically created the stage and seating spaces with the venue’s iconic architecture in mind, aiming to accentuate the heritage building’s grandiose design as part of the performance experience.
The set’s ability to blend with the Royal Exhibition Building’s lavish features speaks to Chaundy’s emphasis that the venue itself is a “production ‘hero”.
Additionally, the performance will have a series of intermissions to tide you through this four-and-a-half-hour splendour, where patrons are encouraged to soak up the heritage-listed building and enjoy themed catering.
Already receiving buzz from Opera Magazine as “a magnificent achievement with performances at a consistently high level”, this opera is sure to deliver as the grandest musical event of 2025.
Get tickets to the Melbourne Opera’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg here.