Join us as we kick-start the Festival of Outback Opera for 2024.

Held in the historic open-air cinema of The Royal Theatre in the centre of Winton, with celebrations spilling out into the neighbouring streets. It’s a wonderful opportunity for you to shake off those weary travelling shoes, catch up with friends and meet new ones as the stage is set for the coming week of festivities.

The night offers a fun selection of songs and performances an opportunity to test your own operatic talents in, Sing Sing Sing.

Sing, Sing, Sing, gets you up on your feet in and singing your heart out. Guided by host Jason- Barry-Smith, all are invited to sing familiar tunes from the world of opera and song, creating an unforgettable fusion of culture and casual conviviality.

Celebrations continue well into the evening, using the starry skies as canvas and a precursor to all that is on offer at the Festival of Outback Opera 2024.

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

A free and family-friendly performance of Opera Queensland's new touring show, where pop and rock meet the classics. Making a stop at the Festival of Outback Opera at the Crackup Sisters; Dustarena, as part of its regional Queensland tour.

Do We Need Another Hero? is a fusion of the classical and the contemporary, seamlessly blending the grandeur of opera with chart-topping anthems that pay homage to heroes from every corner of our world. From the mythical valour of Hercules to the introspective depths of Hamlet, from the iconic Wonder Woman to the indomitable spirit of the working-class man, this production explores what it means to be a hero.

On this hero’s journey, you’ll find yourself tapping your foot, clapping your hands and you might discover that true heroes are not only found in comic books; they can be found in the lyrics and melodies that inspire us.

FREE, BUT PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

Join us for a lively and informal panel discussion at the historical North Gregory Hotel in Winton. This year’s panel will look at the impact of cultural tourism in the Outback. Grab a drink, pull up a chair and participate in an exchange of ideas with industry experts about the value the Arts can contribute to the rich culture of regional Queensland.

Panel members will be announced closer to the event.

FREE, BUT PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

Enjoy soaring voices in a larger-than-life landscape. In 2024 Dark Sky Serenade returns to the spectacular Jump-Up at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, for a concert 75 metres above the breathtaking surrounding landscape.

Dazzling night skies, crystal clear air and glorious music ignite your senses at this large-scale outdoor concert. As the sun sets the spectacular views and colours constantly transform as you look across the vast landscape. As night falls, the stage becomes a cathedral of light amidst the infinite starry sky. This is opera like you have never experienced.

Featuring award-winning singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke. Classically trained, Kate has been widely praised for her unique ability to effortlessly traverse the worlds of opera, contemporary pop, folk, and musical theatre. Joining Kate will be tenor Rosario La Spina, direct from his appearance in Opera Queensland’s new Brisbane-based Brisbane Bel Canto festival and soprano Rachelle Durkin who returned to Australia from New York during the pandemic. She recently starred in West Australian Opera’s La Bohème and was last seen in Queensland playing the title role in Opera Queensland’s Tosca. As well as Shaun Brown, Hayley Sugars and a host of other artists will perform alongside the University of Queensland Pulse Chamber Orchestra joined by musicians of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Dark Sky Serenade shifts the grandeur of the opera house to the wonder of the natural world.

CREATIVE TEAM

Music Director Chris van Tuinen

Director PATRICK NOLAN

Lighting BERNIE TAN-HAYES

With the University of Queensland Pulse Chamber Orchestra and Chorus joined by musicians of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

EVENT BUS TRANSFERS

Need transportation to and from your event? Book one of our bus transfers under the 'What's on' tab.

This majestic concert showcases opera’s best loved hits among the deep history of Camden Park Station. The historic 18,000-acre working cattle station boasts 360-degree views of uninterrupted horizon. The venue has played host to everyone from the country’s first stockmen to Queen Elizabeth herself.

On this very special evening, audiences will be enchanted by the voices of classically trainted singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke, tenor Rosario La Spina, soprano Rachelle Durkin as well as Shaun Brown, Hayley Sugars and a host of other artists as they perform alongside the University of Queensland Pulse Chamber Orchestra joined by musicians of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra.

As the sun sets over the desert backdrop, the performers will be illuminated by the spellbinding colours of the Outback. Get out your cameras, this is Insta-worthy on a grand scale.

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical. EVENT BUS TRANSFERS Need transportation to and from your event? Book one of our bus transfers under the 'What's on' tab.

Come in your riding boots and ballgown and be ready for a gala like no other.

An evening of fine dining, sublime singing and dancing set among the coolibah tree-lined Thomson River at Smithy’s Camp. This relaxed, yet stylish, gathering embodies the spirit and iconography of the Outback with its casual approach then adds just enough glitz to ensure the evening is a memorable one.

Atmospheric lighting sets the mood as Australia’s finest soloists deliver a series of opera favourites throughout the 3-course meal, each perfectly paired to the culinary offering. For dessert, the dancefloor opens with an upbeat DJ set and you’re invited to continue the celebrations well into the night as our bar will remain open for business while you dance away.

Looking for something extra special? Start the evening with an optional Sunset River Cruise to make the most of your Festival of Outback Opera experience in Longreach.

Ticket includes 3 course meal plus drinks package and transfers to/from the venue.

Smithy’s Sunset Cruise is available at an extra charge and must be reserved separately. Details here (https://outbackaussietours.com.au/tour/smithys-sunset-cruise/)

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

A free and family-friendly performance of Opera Queensland's new touring show, where pop and rock meet the classics. Making a stop at the Festival of Outback Opera at the Crackup Sisters; Dustarena, as part of its regional Queensland tour.

Do We Need Another Hero? is a fusion of the classical and the contemporary, seamlessly blending the grandeur of opera with chart-topping anthems that pay homage to heroes from every corner of our world. From the mythical valour of Hercules to the introspective depths of Hamlet, from the iconic Wonder Woman to the indomitable spirit of the working-class man, this production explores what it means to be a hero.

On this hero’s journey, you’ll find yourself tapping your foot, clapping your hands and you might discover that true heroes are not only found in comic books; they can be found in the lyrics and melodies that inspire us.

FREE, BUT PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

Dine in style with friends and other festival guests at the Winton Long Lunch celebrating all things outback cuisine.

Presented by Opera Queensland and Queensland Music Trails, our Long Lunch features an exquisite Chef’s menu paired with a selection of fine wines, accompanied by a degustation of songs performed by some of the stars of the festival. As the flavours dance on your palate, the music takes flight. Rich arias and delicious duets make this an afternoon to remember.

We are pleased to be supported by surrounding communities in the delivery of this event, including produce from local farms and students from the Big Red Truck Outback College of Hospitality who act as front of house staff on the day.

Bus transfers from Longreach to the Waltzing Matilda Centre will be available to purchase from the checkout page.

This exclusive event is limited, purchase your ticket early to secure your reservation.

Opera Queensland’s Festival of Outback Opera is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, the Outback Queensland Tourism Association and Haymans Electrical.

EVENT BUS TRANSFERS

Need transportation to and from your event? Book one of our bus transfers under the 'What's on' tab.