Sydney Harbour, 2019 and 2024
Francesca Zambello directed the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour staging, first seen in 2019 and revived in 2024. The revival ran 22 March to 21 April at Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point. The dates are historical. For an assignment, cite the specific run, because casts and production credits can change between seasons.
Designing a large outdoor stage
Opera Australia's history describes a freeway overpass and three custom subway cars. These objects provided instantly recognisable lines and silhouettes on a stage read from a grandstand. The same source describes a non-slip surface and wet-weather shoes. On a large outdoor stage, the conditions of performing choreography are part of the production's design.
Chase the programme
Start with AusStage or the producing company's archive. Record the event title, company, venue, city and opening date. Then compare a programme, a season page or a contemporary review. If a tour moved between venues, keep separate entries even when the underlying production was the same. Record matinees or extensions only when your source identifies them.
Research exercise
Compare an indoor production photo with Opera Australia's account of the harbour staging. What must read from the back row? What can only work up close? A railing can be a realistic fixture on a small stage and a graphic line on a large one. Describe what each scale lets an audience see.