Bellarine and Geelong audiences will have the chance to broaden their opera experience when Melbourne-based company Lyster Opera brings one of Mozart’s hidden gems to the Potato Shed in Drysdale.
While not as well-known to the general public as Mozart’s other operas such as The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro or Don Giovanni, Abduction from the Seraglio (Die Entführung aus dem Serail) is still one of Amadeus’ most popular and highly respected works
Lyster Opera, established in 2018 by bass-baritone and historian Jamie Moffat, continues the work of William Saurin Lyster, an Irish-born entrepreneur who brought opera to new audiences in Australia during the 1800s.
A registered charity, Lyster Opera brings together established opera stars and rising stars to perform throughout regional Australia as well as Melbourne.
The Drysdale stop is one of seven shows in Victoria, and Moffat explained he selected Abduction from the Seraglio because, based on his experience, regional audiences are particularly open to exploring lesser-known operas.
“I embarked on the journey of recreating the original Lyster Company’s model of touring small country towns and presenting grand operas because I truly believe that opera should be for everyone,” Moffat said.
“Our company’s mission is to make opera accessible to all, at a price everyone can afford. The enjoyment of great music should never be limited by where you live.”
French pianist Kevin Tamanini, who has worked with Opera Australia and Melbourne Opera since his arrival to Australia in 2022, features as musical director.
Lyster Opera enjoyed a successful performance of Rossini’s The Italian Girl in Algiers at the Potato Shed in 2024.
Moffat said the Drysdale venue was “perfect” for the company.
“We were so overwhelmed by the reception we received at The Potato Shed on our last tour, that we really hope to be able to include it in our regular rotation,” he said.
Abduction from the Seraglio is at the Potato Shed on Saturday, April 5. Visit lysteropera.com.au or call the Potato Shed box office on 5251 1998 for tickets or more information.
