MOVE over Oprah the mega-star, another type of entertainment has been billed as the saviour for Aussie tourism – opera.
But this is no ordinary opera – in fact there’s no attraction quite like it anywhere else in the world.
Opera Australia will take its performances outside in an ambitious $11.5 million spectacle aiming to grab the attention of tourists looking to soak up Sydney’s spectacular harbour views.
Touted as the nation’s next iconic event, the “floating opera” will transform Sydney for three weeks from March 24.
While there are some other floating operas around the world, they don’t have the same views on offer.
The singers will take to an open-air 25 metre “shimmering” stage on the harbour, complete with a giant crystal chandelier that will appear to float in the sky. The nine-by-nine-metre Swarovski chandelier will feature 10,0000 crystals.
Opera Australia said the backdrop will include views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the city skyline.
“Everyone loves to look at the outside of the Sydney Opera House, so why not have that as the backdrop of a wonderful production,” Artistic Director of Opera Australia Lyndon Terracini said.
It is hoped the spectacle will help turn the luck of Australia’s tourism industry around after the latest statistics showed a drop in international tourist arrivals.
Australian Bureau of Statistics research showed Australians took 7.8 million international trips last year – nearly two million more than international tourists arriving here. There was a drop in international visitors of 0.2 per cent.
However there are high hopes for Asian visitors with arrivals from China increasing 19.4 per cent last year to 542,000. Tourism NSW hopes the event will be a drawcard to boost those figures further.
An Opera Australia spokesman said the event has struck a chord with travellers overseas, and particularly in Asia.
“We are confident it will grow to an annual event and it will attract people from all over the world,” the spokesman said.
“It will be one of the really iconic events of Australia that we’ll be known for overseas.”
Up to 3000 spectators will be able to watch the La Traviata performance at the Royal Botanic Gardens.
Those willing to spend $550 can dine at the “Platinum Lounge” for decorated with velvets and crystals, while those seeking a cheaper visit can buy a basic entry ticket from $85.
Fireworks will finish off the performances every night.
With nearly 50 per cent of forward-booking tickets sold already, Opera Australia is hopeful the show will be a hit and says half of people who have purchased tickets have never seen an opera before.
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