My year would absolutely not be complete without my work with Pinchgut Opera – and I am thrilled to be part of the moment when this ‘boutique’ opera company finally presents an opera in a real theatre! Moving from its usual and regular home at City Recital Hall (where the concert hall has a stage and set built on it) we are presenting Purcell’s The Fairy Queen at the Roslyn Packer Theatre in Walsh Bay. There is a wonderful cast of familiar (and newer) faces in a production directed and designed by Netia Jones which promises to be very special.

from the Pinchgut Opera website

Purcell’s The Fairy Queen is a curious and captivating opera, which originated as an adaptation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Pinchgut’s brilliant reimagining explores love in all its guises and disguises across a city in twenty-four hours.

Renowned for her imaginative and innovative work, award-winning UK director Netia Jones makes her Pinchgut debut to create this enthralling new production. The Fairy Queen examines the deepest of human emotions in a timeless portrait of our attempts to communicate, cohabitate, and love.

The score encompasses everything from French-style dances to exquisite laments and elaborate choruses. Its diversity and richness are a shining example of Purcell’s brilliance, securing its status as an enduring masterpiece.

Staged at the Roslyn Packer Theatre, The Fairy Queen marks a significant moment for Pinchgut and a highlight of the 2025 season.