Opera Queensland 2026 Season Launch

25th Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia and the 24th Governor of Queensland, the Honourable Dame Quentin Bryce AD CVO; Opera Queensland Chair, Ms Linda Apelt; CEO and Artistic Director, Mr Patrick Nolan; Executive Director, Mr Adam Tucker; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen. 

I wish to acknowledge the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging and to all First Nations people here this evening. 

As Joint Patrons of Opera Queensland, Graeme and I are delighted to join you for this exciting occasion—the launch of the 2026 Season.  

Opera Queensland holds a special place in the cultural life of our State—a legacy that began in 1981 when the company set out to bring world-class opera to Queensland audiences.  

For more than four decades, it has remained a cornerstone of our artistic heritage, enriching communities from Brisbane to the most remote corners of the outback. 

This enduring commitment to artistic excellence and accessibility ensures that the joy of opera can be shared with all Queenslanders. 

One of the most inspiring examples of this vision is the Festival of Outback Opera initiative.  

Graeme and I have been privileged to experience its magic twice—most recently in May this year in Winton and Longreach, where the incomparable Sumi Jo captivated audiences, and previously in May 2023. These performances remind us that opera is not confined to the concert hall; it belongs to everyone, everywhere. 

Queensland’s arts landscape is as vibrant and diverse as our beautiful state, and Opera Queensland is at its heart, bringing world-class productions to our cities and regions, nurturing talent, and enriching lives through music.  

This work reflects the creativity and generosity of its supporters who believe in the transformative power of the arts. I extend my deepest thanks to the donors, sponsors, and partners whose philanthropy makes this possible. Your belief in the value of opera ensures that it continues to thrive and reach audiences across our State. 

As we look to the year ahead, the 2026 Season promises to be bold, imaginative, and deeply engaging. From the haunting beauty of A Winter’s Journey to the playful elegance of Rossini’s La Cenerentola, the 2026 lineup pays homage to Opera Queensland’s vision and artistic range. 

Audiences will be transported by the magical world of Rusalka, and later, the wit and wonder of Into the Woods, presented in partnership with Queensland Theatre.  

And, of course, the much-loved Festival of Outback Opera will once again unite music lovers under Queensland’s vast skies—a celebration of song and place that is uniquely ours. 

This ability of Opera Queensland to connect communities, celebrate our cultural identity, and showcase our extraordinary depth of artistic talent cannot be understated, nor taken for granted. 

Thank you all for your commitment to the arts in Queensland, and for your belief in the power of creativity to transform lives.