SEVEN DEADLY SINS JULIAN LANGDON, MARK VIGGIANI, JESSICA WELLS & IAN WHITNEY DIE SIEBEN TODSÜNDEN KURT WEILL & BERTOLT BRECHT

Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall 6 November 2015

1 WELCOME

Victorian Opera has turned ten! Tonight your state opera company celebrates with new works by emerging composers, showcasing our bright young stars, alongside Berliner Kabarett with a devilish diva.

To everyone past and present who has come on this journey, our audience, our supporters, our artists, the State Government of Victoria, our Artistic Director Richard Mills, our Founding Music Director Richard Gill, our board and staff, we give our heartfelt thanks. In 2016, we continue to present opera without boundaries. Join us and experience our season of different dreams.

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2 ARTISTIC DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE RICHARD MILLS

The notion of Australian cities as emblems for the deadly sins is a fertile blueprint for creative response. It has proved to be an interesting idea on which to base a co-operatively made new work and provide an opportunity for four young Australian composers to create a companion piece to a classic via their own text and music. Julian Langdon, Mark Viggiani, Jessica Wells and Ian Whitney were allocated two sins each (Julian, a sin, a prologue and an epilogue). The cameos were developed by a process of workshops at Victorian Opera and an orchestral workshop as part of the Tasmania Symphony Orchestra's Composer Development Program.

What has surprised, delighted and The vicarious contemplation of sin has always occasionally disconcerted is the complete been a fascinating pastime for humanity. unpredictability of each composer's response From the Book of Genesis, the spy thriller or to the given brief. The involvement of our the murder mystery to the circles of hell in young artists has also added a dimension of Dante's Inferno, the notion of evil-doing and its possibilities for feedback and artistic growth. pageant of consequent causality as a kind of perverse spectator sport has had a continuing In Die Sieben Todsünden, Brecht's text is potency as a basis for story - in all media. satirical. When Anna tries to behave morally, she is scolded by her alter ego and her family Under the care of two young talented for committing one of the seven sins. Meow ringmasters, director Cameron Menzies and Meow brings her own sultry "weltschmerz" to conductor Tahu Matheson, tonight's spectacle proceedings here. The Antipodes hold no such draws on this tradition from across three complex, world-weary attitude. Here we revel worlds: our own country and the perceived in our sins with gusto and enthusiasm. Enjoy. foibles of its capital cities as images of corruption - the "seven teeming sores" of poet Richard Mills A.D.Hope, and the ironic satire of Brecht and Artistic Director, Victorian Opera Weill, two Europeans locating the deadly sins in Memphis, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Boston, Baltimore and San Francisco.

3 CONDUCTOR'S MESSAGE TAHU MATHESON

Die Sieben Todsünden is a piece that, though harmonically quite complex, constantly uses immediately recognisable and simple musical forms (admittedly through a lens of questioning irony and piercing satiric wit!). Barbershop quartets, marches, waltzes and ballads, sometimes simply constructed, sometimes grotesquely transformed, shape this piece into a brilliantly satirical take on the conventional idea of sin. Weill's virtuosic orchestration, superb melodic invention and sure dramatic instinct propel us through the work, and inspire in us a certain delectation that perhaps we would rather not admit to…

A musical framework which interweaves As most other people, my first contact with the canonical works and newly minted pieces always music of Kurt Weill was the ballad Mack the makes for interesting listening, but the idea Knife - an amazingly evocative song that has of juxtaposing a single masterpiece against a the ability to co-opt us gently, seductively and reimagining of the same subject matter is, I think, effortlessly into a seamy netherworld. This song something very unusual, and something that is, of course, only the most minuscule part of I have found to be completely fascinating. Weill's work, and, starting with the Weill-Brecht collaborations, I began to discover his other Learning these extremely accomplished, works. I was absolutely captivated. inventive, surprising, and, at times, genuinely beautiful compositions has been interesting Weill's famous comment that he had 'never and intriguing. The pieces are quite different: acknowledged the difference between serious each of the brilliant young composers has music and light music, only good music a definite style (not an easy thing to come by), and bad music', was like an apologia for an individual way of dealing with the orchestra his own work. The ability to find meaning in and a unique use of harmony. The works candid simplicity was an idea that thrilled and are filled with pastiche, parody, comedy, wit, influenced many composers, and is something beauty and virtuosity. Together they make a that still resonates powerfully in today’s over- compelling and engaging whole that promises complicated, over-stimulated world. A new to be as entertaining as it is fascinating. interest in simple melody, folk song and even popular culture began to influence music Tahu Matheson that had been subjugated to the powerfully Conductor enthralling hold of Wagnerian chromaticism and philosophical complication.

4 DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE CAMERON MENZIES

The first half looking at Australia in 2015 through the sins of its capital cities takes us into a strange and somewhat nationalistic journey around this vast island where we explore things like the Lust of Sydney, the Greed of Melbourne and the Anger of Perth. Simply put, the second half takes us into the world of the two Annas. They have been sent away from their home and are struggling to survive, whilst trying to still provide for their family who are back at home. Written by two exiled Germans in 1933, who could no longer call Berlin their home, they write a piece that premiered in France but is set in America. These facts alone lead me to explore the ideas Directing Seven Deadly Sins for Victorian around survival, the search for a new home Opera has been filled with many great joys. and safe passage to it. I have had the all too rare opportunity to work The opportunity to direct Kurt Weill and Bertolt again with my dear friend and colleague, the Brecht’s Die Sieben Todsünden (their last major incomparable star herself Meow Meow and collaboration together) is certainly a career then if that wasn’t enough, another friend and highlight. I have always had a very strong long time collaborator, the highly acclaimed love for the works of Weill and Brecht and couture designer Linda Britten agreed to come for the period of history in which such works on board to design costumes for the ladies in were being written. I am also thrilled to be the new commission and for Meow Meow in able to premiere another new work in 2015 the well loved Weill/Brecht creation. commissioned by Richard Mills for Victorian Even though both halves were composed for Opera. This is again a wonderful opportunity very different reasons and in seemingly different to create something unique. times, the themes that surround all seven of the Cameron Menzies deadly sins bring an unnerving darkness and a satirical world that one can delve into. Director

5 MANAGING DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE ANDREW SNELL

of Melbourne. Following two years of performing on our stages, working in our rehearsal rooms, receiving individual coaching and master classes and touring regionally and interstate (all the while studying at the University of Melbourne), these young artists are now perfectly placed to take the next step in their burgeoning professional careers. Their graduation, however, also marks the end of the program after two intakes over the last four years. Due to the discontinuation of program-specific Government funding, the cost of providing a course of this scale has become unfeasible for our company. While remaining committed to reinstating a Masters program Welcome to an evening of temptation and in future years, Victorian Opera will implement musical gluttony: Victorian Opera’s final offering a Professional Development Program in 2016; for our 2015 Season, Seven Deadly Sins. where emerging talent will work and study with the company and feature in our productions. In this devilish double bill, Victorian Opera Victorian Opera’s unswerving commitment to revisits the work of Weill and Brecht with their the future of our art form remains just as strong final collaborationDie Sieben Todsünden. We’re at the end of our 10th season as it did when thrilled to welcome the sensationally talented the company was conceived in 2005. Meow Meow in her debut with Victorian Opera. Victorian Opera is able to continue doing such As a partner to this iconic work, we present important work thanks to its many supporters. a new commission, supported by the The company would like to acknowledge the Composer Development Program at the generous assistance of the State Government Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra and Symphony of Victoria through Creative Victoria, The Robert Services International. Four of the country’s Salzer Foundation, our philanthropic supporters; brightest composers, Julian Langdon, Mark especially our Artistic Director’s Circle and New Viggiani, Jessica Wells and Ian Whitney, have Work Syndicate, and our many corporate partners. reimagined the Seven Deadly Sins inspired by seven of Australia’s major cities. With this support, Victorian Opera is able to continue its important work as a state icon and Tonight marks the graduating performance a national leader. of our Master of Music (Opera Performance) students, a unique collaboration between Andrew Snell Victorian Opera and Melbourne Managing Director, Victorian Opera Conservatorium of Music at the University

6 DIRECTOR, MELBOURNE CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC GARY MCPHERSON

with the University’s Faculty of Arts and music electives with MCM lecturers. It is this partnership from some of Australia’s education and industry leaders that sets this program apart.

The vision and support of the State Government through Creative Victoria for the program has been vital to its creation and success. The first artists to graduate in 2013 have already brought their considerable skills to local, national and international opera companies, and we look forward to similar successes from this company of performers you see tonight.

To our friends at the Victorian Opera, its Artistic Director Richard Mills and dedicated Welcome to the graduating performance of our staff, I say a warm thank you. The professional Master of Music (Opera Performance) students. knowledge and expertise that you share with the students on a daily basis is fundamental Chosen from over 70 applicants from Australia to this program’s success. and overseas in 2013, they represent some of the nation’s most promising operatic talent. Tonight is the first opportunity that many of They have been working hard over the past you will have had to enjoy this talented group two years in the demanding components of of young artists but it also marks the end this unique graduate program and we are of a chapter for our students. We wish them excited to share the results with you. well in their future endeavours and we thank their families and friends who have provided The relationship between the Melbourne support and care over the past two years. Conservatorium of Music (MCM) and our partner Victorian Opera provides developing I hope you enjoy the performance. artists with the opportunity to become established members of a professional opera company. Professor Gary McPherson Ormond Chair of Music and Director, The comprehensive program includes intensive Melbourne Conservatorium of Music vocal and performance training with Victorian at the University of Melbourne Opera and MCM, language and diction studies

7 PRODUCTION SEVEN DEADLY SINS

6 November 2015 Creative Team Arts Centre Melbourne Conductor Tahu Matheson Hamer Hall Director, Production Concept & Design Running time approximately 1 hour Cameron Menzies 50 minutes with one 20 minute interval. Lighting Designer Joseph Mercurio

Acknowledgements Costume Designer Linda Britten Resolution X, Norwest Productions, Sound Designer Jim Atkins The Team at LB, Sounds Solo, Darren Cooper, Production Coordinator Luke Hales Show Works. Technical Coordinator Peter Darby Commissions supported by Symphony Services Stage Manager Andrea Corish International and the Composer Development Head Mechanist Kieran Santoso Program of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. Repetiteurs Phoebe Briggs, Phillipa Safey, Surtitles provided by The Kurt Weill Foundation Simon Bruckard* For Music and translated by Michael Feingold. SEVEN DEADLY SINS Prologue Composer Julian Langdon Cast Kate Amos*, Nathan Lay*, Elizabeth Lewis*, Emma Muir-Smith*, Michael Petruccelli*, Cristina Russo*, Matthew Tng*

Hobart/Envy Composer Mark Viggiani Cast Mr Zee Michael Petruccelli Prince Alfredo Matthew Tng Maria Kate Amos Benita Elizabeth Lewis Katya Emma Muir-Smith

8 Adelaide/Gluttony Perth/Anger Composer Julian Langdon Composer Mark Viggiani Cast Cast Bob Michael Petruccelli Rosanna Elizabeth Lewis Gustus Nathan Lay Gianina Cristina Russo Mr Big Nathan Lay Brisbane/Sloth Composer Ian Whitney Sydney/Lust Cast Composer Ian Whitney Milton’s Angel Cristina Russo Cast Pete Nathan Lay Helene Elizabeth Lewis Joh Matthew Tng Lotte Kate Amos Marianne Emma Muir-Smith Melbourne/Greed Anna Cristina Russo Composer Jessica Wells Fred Matthew Tng Kurt Nathan Lay Cast Kate Amos, Nathan Lay, Elizabeth Julian Michael Petruccelli Lewis, Emma Muir-Smith, Michael Petruccelli, Cristina Russo, Matthew Tng Epilogue

Canberra/Pride Composer Julian Langdon Composer Jessica Wells Cast Kate Amos, Nathan Lay, Elizabeth Lewis, Emma Muir-Smith, Michael Petruccelli, Cast Cristina Russo, Matthew Tng Commentator 1 Kate Amos Commentator 2 Emma Muir-Smith *Students from the Master of Music (Opera Commentator 3 Elizabeth Lewis Performance), presented in partnership Julia Gillard Cristina Russo with Melbourne Conservatorium of Music John Howard Matthew Tng at the University of Melbourne. Tony Abbott Nathan Lay Kevin Rudd Michael Petruccelli

9 PRODUCTION SEVEN DEADLY SINS

DIE SIEBEN TODSÜNDEN Clarinet Paul Champion Principal, Richard Composer Kurt Weill Sholl Associate Principal, Robin Henry Acting Associate Principal*, Andrew Mitchell Principal Librettist Bertolt Brecht Bass Clarinet Cast Bassoon Lucinda Cran Principal, Hugh Anna 1 / Anna 2 Meow Meow Ponnuthurai Associate Principal*, Timothy Tenor 1 Michael Petruccelli Murray Principal Contrabasoon Tenor 2 Carlos E. Bárcenas Baritone Nathan Lay Horn Jasen Moulton Principal, Linda Hewett Bass Jeremy Kleeman Principal Third Horn, Sydney Braunfeld, Rachel Shaw, Anton Schroeder*, Heather McMahon* Orchestra Victoria Trumpet Mark Fitzpatrick Principal, Anthony Concertmaster Roger Jonsson Pope Associate Principal, Tristan Rebien*, Allison Wright* Deputy Concertmaster Yi Wang^ Trombone Scott Evans Principal, Violin Erica Kennedy Acting Principal, Benjamin Anderson Principal Bass Trombone, Tomomi Brennan Associate Principal, Binny Robert Collins* Baik, Lubino Fernandes, Rachel Gamer, Matthew Hassall, Rachael Hunt, Ceridwen Tuba Jon Woods Principal* Jones, Mara Miller, Philip Nixon, John Noble , Timpani Guy du Blêt Principal, Daniel Martin Reddington, Christine Ruiter, Markiyan Richardson Principal* Melnychenko*, Holly Piccoli*, Lynette Rayner*, Percussion Conrad Nilsson Principal Olga Vakoussevich*, Tim Veldman* Harp Delyth Stafford Principal* Viola Paul McMillan Principal, Jason Bunn, Catherine Bishop, Nadine Delbridge, Suying Piano Simon Bruckard+ Aw*, Tom Higham*, Josh Stilwell* Banjo/Guitar John Paine* Cello Melissa Chominsky Principal, Diane Froomes Associate Principal, Sarah Cuming, ^ Concertmaster for this performance Philippa Gardner, Andrea Taylor * Denotes Guest Artist Double Bass Davin Holt Principal, Dennis +Victorian Opera Music Staff Vaughan Associate Principal, Matthew Thorne Flute Lisa-Maree Amos Principal, Karen Schofi eld Associate Principal, Melissa Doecke* Oboe Stephen Robinson Principal, Joshua de Graaf Associate Principal, Dafydd Camp Principal Cor Anglais

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11 12 SEVEN DEADLY SINS SYNOPSIS

SEVEN DEADLY SINS Sydney/Lust Three couples brunch at a café in Sydney’s inner Perth/Anger west. Married couple, Kurt and Lotte, sit together A bitter, angry feud rages between Rosanna and while Fred and Julian, who are dating, sit with Gianina about Mr Big’s fortunes. Gianina wants Marianne and Anna, long-term partners. desperately to protect her inheritance from her The couples' lives intertwine. father’s new wife, his maid Rosanna. Hobart/Envy

On the latest episode of glitzy game show Pick a Princess, Prince Alfredo must choose his wife. Host Mr Zee introduces three princesses, Benita, Katya and Maria, all vying for the Prince; each princess offers a different allure to Prince Alfredo.

Adelaide/Gluttony Food critic Bob is trying to part ways with his arch nemesis Appetite.

Melbourne/Greed

Who was John Wren? A corrupt and self- interested criminal or a man of the people? Did he deserve celebration in his death or to be forgotten for his crimes? Canberra/Pride DIE SIEBEN TODSÜNDEN From Howard, Rudd, Gillard and Abbott, who Sent out by the family into the hungrily sinful will lead Team Australia? What made them world, Anna must raise enough money to send and what made them walk the plank? GST, home, to build a house in Louisiana. Each new apologies, mining tax and more. city presents Anna with a formidable deadly sin to confront, as she slowly becomes a Brisbane/Sloth commodity to society and the family, under the Joh and Pete endure the heat on their verandah guise of capitalism. in the late afternoon, desperate for their next beer yet too lazy to fetch one. An angel appears, Image credit: © Magnus Hastings speaking extracts from John Milton’s ‘On His (p.12, p.13, p.16) Blindness’. Joh and Pete are unphased; only interested in eventually getting their next beer.

13 SEVEN DEADLY SINS BIOGRAPHIES

TAHU MATHESON CAMERON MENZIES JULIAN LANGDON Conductor Director Composer Tahu has been working for Cameron Menzies has worked Melbourne-based composer Opera Australia since 2007. with Opera Australia, Victorian Julian Langdon writes for In 2016, he will conduct The Opera, Malthouse Theatre, film, television, games Magic Flute and The Pearl Sydney Theatre Company, and the concert stage. His Fishers for Opera Australia and ANAM, Oper Köln, Deutsche scores span a vast range of will conduct the Queensland Oper, Berlin & DivaOpera musical styles and contexts, Symphony Orchestra. In 2014, UK. He is the recipient of featuring an array of soloists, he conducted performances the 2011 Berlin New Music bands, orchestras, electronic of L’elisir d’amore at Sydney Opera Award, 2008 Bayreuth soundscapes, recorded objects Opera House and in 2012 Opera Award from Opera and acoustic manipulations. & 2013 he conducted Oz Foundation Australia/DAAD His work has been featured Opera’s Don Giovanni. and The Besen Family Artist internationally in high-profile Tahu has assisted on numerous Program (Direction), Malthouse advertising campaigns, productions including the Theatre. Cameron currently has broadcast television, film Ring Cycle, Bliss, Falstaff, acclaimed productions of Lucia festivals, showcase events and Otello, Rigoletto, Carmen, di Lammermoor and Le Nozze concert halls. In 2007, the City Capriccio and Of Mice and di Figaro touring Europe for of Melbourne awarded Julian Men. In 2008, he conducted DivaOpera UK, while 2014 saw the first Melbourne Prize for Beethoven's Ninth Symphony for his international debut directing Music Development Award for the 4MBS Festival in Brisbane Don Giovanni for the same his orchestral work, and in 2012 and in 2004 he conducted company. In 2016, Cameron he was co-commissioned by the a new opera, Nelson, for the will direct Lucia di Lammermoor MSO and the TSO to compose Trafalgar Bicentenary in London. for Victorian Opera at Her a new work in celebration of Majesty’s Theatre. the spectacular return of the redeveloped Hamer Hall.

14 MARK VIGGIANI JESSICA WELLS IAN WHITNEY Composer Composer Composer Mark Viggiani is a Melbourne- Jessica Wells is a versatile Ian participated in the based composer whose music composer, orchestrator, and Symphony Services has been performed by various arranger for concerts, films, International/Tasmanian ensembles in Australia and theatre, and album recordings. Symphony Orchestra Europe including the Tasmanian Since obtaining her Master Composers School in 2013 and Melbourne Symphony of Music in Composition and 2015. His work has been Orchestras, Orchestra Victoria, (Sydney Conservatorium) commissioned by Plexus and soprano Greta Bradman, and Master of Arts in Screen by Christopher Cartlidge for Ensemble Liaison, the Mons Composition (AFTRS), her the ABC/Symphony Australia Kinky Pinky Orchestra (Belgium), career has gone from strength 2015 Young Performers Award. Z.O.O. Duo (Netherlands), to strength. Her business of 12 He studied at the Queensland The Song Company, and years, Jigsaw Music, provides Conservatorium with Gerard Speak Percussion. Amongst music preparation services Brophy, and as a student he numerous awards and prizes, for clients all over the country was also the inaugural recipient most recently Viggiani won the and overseas. Jessica has of the Australian Youth 2014 Melbourne Conservatory orchestrated over 50 films, Orchestra/National Institute of Music / Melbourne Recital including the recently successful of Dramatic Art Theatre Centre award, and the 2012 kids' movies Paper Planes, Music Fellowship. Ian worked Zavod Classical/Jazz Fusion Blinky Bill and Oddball. She in the Cultural Affairs office Composition Award. Viggiani’s has written the theme music of the Embassy of Australia, teachers have included Elliott for ABC TV’s Q&A program Washington DC 2005-2011 Gyger, Stuart Greenbaum and – which makes her kids think and now lives in Sydney. Martin Bresnick, and he holds a she’s famous. Ph.D in Music Composition from the University of Melbourne.

15 SEVEN DEADLY SINS BIOGRAPHIES

LINDA BRITTEN JOSEPH MERCURIO MEOW MEOW Costume Designer Lighting Designer Anna 1 / Anna 2 Melbourne-born designer and Joseph Mercurio was born Meow Meow has performed RMIT graduate Linda Britten in Melbourne and raised in the contemporary and Weimar has been a much-loved and Fremantle, Western Australia repertoires with the London admired fixture on the couture before moving to Sydney Philharmonic, Los Angeles scene since she launched her in 1993, working in a wide Philharmonic, the New York signature label. Linda was range of styles in Australia and Pops, Oregon Symphony, Barry named “Australian Fashion touring the world extensively. Humphries and the Australian Designer of the Year”, and has He has collaborated with some Chamber Orchestra, ANAM, continued to be one of the most of Australia’s leading theatre and in her own creations sought after labels. A couturier makers, including Stephen everywhere from the Sydney par excellence, her annual Page, Angela Chaplin, Sue Opera House to Lincoln Centre eveningwear and bridalwear Healey, Juliàn Reta Fuentes, New York to Berlin's Bar Jeder collections are always revered. Phillip Adams, Natalie Weir, Vernunft and London's West Linda Britten continues to design Roger Hodgman, Chrissie End. Her original work has been elegant and sophisticated Parrot and Graeme Murphy. curated by David Bowie, Mikhail eveningwear and wedding He was Lighting Coordinator Baryshnikov and Pina Bausch gowns in conjunction with at WAAPA for four years and and she appears next with San personalised capsule collections. is currently Coordinator of Francisco Symphony's Soundbox Her designs are worn by Performance Technology at the and then in PIAF! A Celebration Australian and international Victorian College of the Arts. at Town Hall NYC and then with personalities alike, with a Pink Martini and the Oregon Symphony for the holiday particular emphasis on the red season. The Malthouse Theatre carpet and one-off pieces. / Sydney Festival commission She designs many performance Meow Meow's Little Mermaid gowns for opera singers, and premieres in January for an now works closely with the MSO Australian festival tour. and the Australian Ballet School. 16 CARLOS E. BÁRCENAS JEREMY KLEEMAN KATE AMOS Cast Cast Cast Born in Colombia. Bachelor Jeremy Kleeman is a graduate Kate is a young soprano of Music Performance and of Victorian Opera and versatile in performing Masters in Music (Opera Melbourne Conservatorium of repertoire that spans genres. Performance) at University Music's Master of Music (Opera Holding a BMus (Perf) (Hons), of Melbourne. His work for Performance), and is currently Dip. (Italian) from UoM, Victorian Opera includes Sir on the Joseph Sambrook is currently completing the Bruno Robertson in I Puritani Opera Scholarship with Melba M.Mus (Opera Performance). (2015), Steuermann in The Opera Trust. In 2015, Jeremy As a Victorian Opera Flying Dutchman (2015), received critical acclaim for his developing artist, various roles Norma (Flavio, understudy Brisbane Baroque Festival debut in: La traviata, Hänsel & Gretel, Pollione), Hansel and Gretel as Teobaldo in Faramondo, I Puritani, Norma, leading (the Witch), La traviata named Best Opera at the 2015 roles with companies in Pirates (Gastone, understudy Alfredo) Helpmann Awards. In 2016, of Penzance, The Mikado, and as a soloist for Opera Jeremy will sing his first lead Sweeney Todd, The Phantom of on a White Night (2013); role for Victorian Opera as they the Opera (Christine, Lyrebird Master Peter’s Puppet Show collaborate with Musica Viva to Award). Kate has studied in 2012, Michael in Deborah present the baroque pastiche on scholarship in Italy at Cheetham’s new opera Pecan Voyage to the Moon. Jeremy Fondazione Spontini Pergolesi, Summer with Short Black has twice been a prize-winning receiving the Sleath Lowrey Opera (2010 & 2011). finalist in the IFAC Australian Award and was ASC 2014 In 2016, Carlos will appear Singing Competition, and won finalist winning multiple awards as Edgardo, opposite Jessica Welsh Male Choir Singer of the including: Symphony Australia Pratt, in Victorian Opera’s Year in 2014. Prize. She was a guest soloist Lucia di Lammermoor at Her at NYE concerts 2014: Hamer Majesty’s Theatre. Hall & SOH with the APO.

17 SEVEN DEADLY SINS BIOGRAPHIES

NATHAN LAY ELIZABETH LEWIS EMMA MUIR-SMITH Cast Cast Cast Since graduating from the A graduate of the Queensland Mezzo Soprano Emma Muir- Melba Conservatorium of Conservatorium, Elizabeth Smith is currently a developing Music, Nathan has established holds a Bachelor of Music artist with Victorian Opera, his career in the Melbourne and Master of Music Studies. completing a Master of Music opera scene. Nathan has won In 2013, Elizabeth became a (Opera Performance), with the National Liederfest, Royal member of the Opera Q Studio Melbourne Conservatorium Melbourne Philharmonic Aria, and in 2014, a developing of Music at the University of and placed 3rd in the Herald artist for Victorian Opera. Melbourne. During her time Sun Aria. He has performed with Some roles for Victorian Opera with Victorian Opera, Emma Opera Australia (A Masked Ball, include Mother and Witch - has covered several roles, Aida, Falstaff, Tosca), Melbourne Hansel and Gretel, Adalgisa and appeared in La traviata, Opera (Schaunard - La Bohème, (Cover) - Norma and Mrs Lovett Norma, The Flying Dutchman, Guglielmo - Cosi fan tutte), (Cover) - Sweeney Todd. Other I Puritani, and notably as and is currently a developing roles include Dido - Dido and Hansel in Hansel and Gretel, artist at Victorian Opera, having Aeneas (Brisbane Baroque and Alice in Alice’s Adventures performed The Baker/Billy Festival), Sorceress -Dido and in Operaland. In addition to Webster - Sunday in the Park Aeneas (Bangalow Festival) and her operatic commitments, with George, The King - Puss Tolomeo - ABANDON (Opera Emma is a frequent recitalist in Boots, Barone Douphol - Q). Elizabeth has also been the and oratorio soloist, with a La traviata, Father - Hansel recipient of many scholarships particular interest in chamber and Gretel, Bunyip Bluegum - and prizes, most notable among music. She performed, recorded, The Magic Pudding – the opera, these are the Sydney Opera and toured extensively with the and Young Recruit in Richard House Opera Award 2015, Choir of Trinity College from Mills’ Remembrance. and the More Than Opera 2009-2012. Development Award 2015.

18 MICHAEL PETRUCCELLI CRISTINA RUSSO MATTHEW TNG Cast Cast Cast Michael has recently performed Cristina completed BMus Baritone Matthew Tng the roles of Giuseppe in La (Hons) and BA majoring completed a Bachelor of traviata, the Sandman in Hansel in Italian at University of Music at The Melbourne and Gretel, and the White Melbourne and is a developing Conservatorium of Music. Rabbit in Alice’s Adventures artist with Victorian Opera, He has performed in Victorian in Operaland. Michael is also studying a Master of Music. Opera's 2012 and 2013 no stranger to the concert Notable roles include: Gretel seasons where he covered the platform, having performed in Hansel and Gretel, Violetta role of Chou En Lai in Victorian as a soloist in a number of (cover) in La traviata, Elvira Opera’s Nixon in China (John Victorian Opera gala concerts (cover) in I Puritani, and Adams). Matthew debuted as well as performing as a Valencienne in The Merry as Marcello in Opera New soloist for the various oratorios Widow. Chorus: La traviata, England's production of La and masses around Melbourne Norma, Der Fliegende Bohème, and has performed and regional Victoria. He was Holländer (Victorian Opera) in masterclasses conducted by awarded the Richard Bonynge and Aida (Opera Australia). Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Andreas Study Scholarship at the 2014 Cristina collaborated with Scholl, Håkan Hagegård and Melbourne Opera Bel Canto Hollywood film composer Susan Graham. Matthew was a Masterclass. In 2016, Michael Johnny Klimek singing and semi-finalist in the 2015 Herald has been engaged by Victorian co-writing music for Chinese Sun Aria competition. He is Opera to perform Arturo feature film Lord of Shanghai currently a developing artist with Ravenclaw, alongside Jessica with Leipzig Radio Symphony Victorian Opera, completing Pratt, in Lucia di Lammermoor Orchestra. Winner of Acclaim a Master of Music (Opera and Beppe in I Pagliacci, as part Italian Opera Study Award, Performance) at Melbourne of Laughter and Tears. Cristina studied in Italy with Conservatorium of Music, at the Valeria Esposito, Luciana Serra University of Melbourne. and Mirella Freni.

19 THE MELBOURNE CONSERVATORIUM OF MUSIC CONGRATULATES THE MASTER OF MUSIC (OPERA PERFORMANCE) CLASS OF 2015, FOR THEIR PERFORMANCE OF SEVEN DEADLY SINS

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If you would like to get more involved in the work of Victorian Opera through our individual giving program please contact Pooja Dutt, Individual Giving Manager on 03 9001 6408 or [email protected]

Founding Patrons Platinum Patrons ($5,000+) Lady Potter AC Greig Gailey & Geraldine Lazarus The Late Dame Elisabeth Murdoch AC DBE Greg Shalit & Miriam Faine Kaye Marion Patron in Chief Wesfarmers Arts The Honourable Linda Dessau AM Anonymous (1) Governor of Victoria Gold Patrons ($2,500+) Leadership Circle ($20,000+) Joanna Baevski Hans & Petra Henkell Tanya Costello & Peter Costello AC Anonymous (2) Bruce Curl Craig D'Alton & Peter Sherlock Artistic Directors Circle ($10,000+) The Late Neilma Gantner Deanne Bevan & Guy Russo Bob Garlick Rob & Caroline Clemente Jennifer George & Matthew Williams William J Forrest AM John & Diana Frew Murray Gordon Mrs Jane Hemstritch Peter & Jenny Hordern Hans & Petra Henkell Ian Kennedy AM & Dr Sandra Hacker AO Peter & Anne Laver Peter Lovell Lady Southey AC Ian Merrylees Anonymous (1) John & Elisabeth Schiller Tim & Lynne Sherwood Education Syndicate ($5,000+) Earl & Countess of Wilton Hans & Petra Henkell Anonymous (2) Dr John & Elizabeth Wright-Smith Silver Patrons ($1,000+) New Work Syndicate ($5,000+) Dr Rosemary Ayton & Dr Sam Ricketson Beth Brown & Tom Bruce AM Ian Baker & Cheryl Saunders Suzanne Kirkham Laurie Bebbington & Elizabeth O’Keeffe Siobhan Lenihan Kirsty Bennett Marian & Ken Scarlett OAM Beth Brown & Tom Bruce AM Joy Selby Smith Buckett Family Felicity Teague David Byrne Terry & Christine Campbell Living Bequest Deidre Cowan Susan Harley Ernest Dawes OBE & Nola Dawes Anonymous (2)

24 John Drury & Dianne Reilly Drury AM Michael Troy Gareth & Merran Evans Helen & Chris Trueman John & Gaye Gaylard Liz & Peter Turner Brian Goddard Catherine Walter AM Nance Grant AM MBE Ian A Watts Gras Foundation Russell Waters & Marissa Barter-Waters Irene Irvine Anonymous (4) Stewart & Denise Jackel Simon L Jackson & Brian Warburton Bronze Patrons ($500+) Stuart T Jennings Ines & Don Behrend David C Jones AO OBE KSJ David Bernshaw & Caroline Isakow Rod & Daniele Kemp Pam Caldwell Alun & Patricia Kenwood Angela Dhar John & Lynne Landy Catrionadh Dobson & Charles Windeyer Kwong & Joanne Lee Dow Beatrice Donkin Dr Paul Lejins & Mrs Glenys Lejins Dr M Elizabeth Douglas Anne Lierse Dennis Freeman John & Kerry Lovering Richard & Isabella Green Margaret Mayers & Marie Dowling Jill & Robert Grogan Duncan & Lorraine McGregor April Hamer Douglas & Rosemary Meagher Angela Kayser Melbourne ADFAS Angela Kirsner Ken Muirden AO Peter & Barbara Kolliner Greg Noonan Jane Kunstler Ruth & Tom O’Dea Joan & George Lefroy Jillian Pappas David & Barbara McSkimming Jane Patrick & Robert Evans Ian Morrey & Dr Geoffrey Minter Michael Rigg Patrick O'Duffy John Rickard Margaret Plant Judith Robinson & Michael Robinson AO Merlyn Quaife Judith Rodriguez Ralph Renard Tom & Elizabeth Romanowski Mary Ryan Joseph Sambrook & Mary-Jane Gething John & Thea Scott Graeme Samuel AC & Jill Davies Mr Sam Smorgon AO & Mrs Minnie Smorgon Michael Sassella Penny Stragalinos Aubrey Schrader Hugh & Liz Taylor Phillip Schudmak Caroline Vaillant Andrew Snell John Ward Caroline Travers OAM Anonymous (16)

25 VICTORIAN OPERA STAFF

Conductor Emeritus Finance and Administration Richard Gill OAM Finance & HR Manager Darren O'Beirne Finance Assistant Claire Voumard Victorian Opera Board Offi ce Administrator & Communications Chairman Jane Hemstritch Assistant Sharni Morter Deputy Chairman Greig Gailey Roger Box Development and Marketing Francis Ebury, Earl of Wilton Development Manager Louise O'Loughlin Ross Freeman Individual Giving Manager Pooja Dutt Anne Gilby Corporate Partnerships Manager Paul Shea Siobhan Leninhan Development Coordinator Meredith Dellar Penny Stragalinos Development & Marketing Coordinator Nichole O'Duffy Catherine Walter AM Marketing & Communications Manager Executive Kanesan Nathan Artistic Director Dr Richard Mills AM Marketing & Communications Coordinator Managing Director Andrew Snell Alexia Jordan Executive Producer Libby Hill Media & Communications Executive Scott Whinfi eld Artistic, Engagement & Production Victorian Opera 2015 Season Staff Head of Music Phoebe Briggs Wigs & Make Up Linda Cowell Repetiteur Phillipa Safey Wardrobe Supervisor Tiffany Abbott Artistic Administration Coordinator Kate Stephens Artistic Administration Assistant Shakira Tsindos Education Offi cer Deborah Vanderwerp Production Manager Darren Cooper Technical & Operations Coordinator Peter Darby Production Coordinator Luke Hales

26 VICTORIAN OPERA PARTNERS

Victorian Opera is supported by the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria. Victorian Opera would also like to acknowledge, with great appreciation, the contribution of the partners listed on this page.

Government Partners

Government Partners

Foundation Partner Regional Partner Performance Partner University Partner Technology Partner Foundation Partner University Partner Regional Partner

Supporting Partners

Markus Neilson Events

Education & Access Partners

Gailey Lazarus The Marian & William Angliss Foundation E.H. Flack Trust Charitable Fund Sylvia Fisher Foundation

Performance Partners

Technology Partner

Victorian Opera creates tailored partnerships to enable businesses to meet their strategic priorities. For a discussion about how your business can benefi t from a partnership with Victorian Opera, please contact Louise O'Loughlin, Development Manager, on (03) 9001 6405 or [email protected]

27 Orchestra Victoria Board is a wholly owned subsidiary Libby Christie of The Australian Ballet. Peter Hough T: (03) 9694 3600 Angela Kelly www.australianballet.com.au David McAllister AM

Management Philanthropy at Orchestra Victoria Artistic Director Lifetime Giving Nicolette Fraillon General Manager $200,000 and Above Julie Amos Mr Robert Albert AO RFD RD Personnel Manager & Mrs Elizabeth Albert Tony Gilham Betty Amsden AO Project Manager The Jack Brockhoff Foundation Margaret Lloyd The William Buckland Foundation Orchestra Coordinator Colonial Foundation Harriette Blanden Geoff and Helen Handbury Foundation Operations Coordinator Helen Macpherson Smith Trust Paul Shannan Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation Project Coordinator The Late David Mandie AM OBE Kate Salvatore Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Charitable Trust Administration Coordinator Sidney Myer Fund & The Myer Foundation Elise Lerpiniere Lady Southey AC Operations Officer Tattersal’s George Adams Foundation Bennett Mackenzie John & Marcia Wertheimer Librarian Glynn Davies $50,000 - $199,999 HR Consultant Joan & Peter Clemenger Trust Ange Park Collier Charitable Fund Accountant Gandel Philanthropy Chelsea Collins The Late Mrs Neilma Gantner Philanthropy Manager The Grosvenor Settlement James Worladge Dr Peter A Kingsbury T: (03) 9669 2732 The Ian Potter Foundation [email protected] John T Reid Charitable Trusts Patrons Manager Irene & Margaret Stewardson Charitable Trusts Olivia Passmore (03) 9669 2776 [email protected]

28 Principal Regional Partner

Orchestra Victoria is assisted by Orchestra Victoria is supported the Commonwealth Government by the Victorian Government through the Australia Council, through Creative Victoria. its arts funding and advisory body

Endowment Funds Henkell Family Fund Education Peter & Carmel Johnson Lesley & Bob Qualtrough Bequest Peter Kolliner OAM & Barbara Kolliner Maple-Brown Abbott Planned Giving H. E. McKenzie Marilyn Meyer GC Bawden & L de Kievit Prof David Penington Trusts and Foundations Lady Potter AC Mr John Redman Creative Partnerships Australia Judith Robinson & Michael Robinson AO The William Buckland Foundation Mrs Margaret S Ross AM Adrienne Shaw Annual Giving Libby Smith The Conductor's Podium H & EA Van Herk Mr Robert Albert AO RFD RD Victor & Karen Wayne & Mrs Elizabeth Albert Mrs Helen Worladge OAM Geoff and Helen Handbury Foundation & Mr Wayne Worladge

The Concertmaster's Ensemble Government Partners Avner Klein & Maria Pannozzo Australia Council for the Arts Joan and Peter Clemenger Trust Creative Victoria Principal Donors The support received from the Australian The Late Mrs Neilma Gantner Government through the Australian Council Gaye & John Gaylard for Arts and from the Victorian Government Dr Alastair Jackson through Creative Victoria provides the Judith & Alasdair McCallum foundation from which we present all our Don & Angela Mercer partner opera and ballet companies. Further support from Local Governments assists our Patrons innovative Community & Education Programs. David & Cindy Abbey Tom Bruce & Beth Brown Orchestra Victoria is a wholly owned Peter & Ivanka Canet subsidiary of The Australian Ballet. Mr Jim Cousins AO & Mrs Libby Cousins Ms Jane Edmanson OAM Mr William J Forrest AM Louis J Hamon OAM

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