Classic Melbourne
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Calendar
    • Terms and conditions
    • Apply to post your events
    • Post Your Event
  • Newsletter Signup
  • About
  • Contact

Melbourne Opera: Samson et Dalila

by Heather Leviston 2nd June, 2025
by Heather Leviston 2nd June, 2025
126

A social context can change our perceptions profoundly. Saint-Saëns’ Samson et Dalila was initially rejected by Paris on a number of grounds: its portrayal of biblical subject matter as an opera rather than an oratorio, its suggestively erotic “Bacchanale” scene, and the belief that Saint-Saëns was a composer of symphonies rather than opera. Its success in Weimar in 1877 was the beginning of many, making Samson et Dalila one of the most favoured French operas of all time – with good reason. Although, understandably, not a consideration when planned, the timing of Melbourne Opera’s production of this most lusciously melodious opera is bound to cause many to think about this familiar story in a different light.

The opera begins with a chorus, the Israelites praying to their god to deliver them from the bondage and suffering inflicted by the Philistines. This inevitably raises the issue of the current tragedies in the Middle East as we witness from afar the grief and suffering in Gaza – and in Israel too. So it is through this lens that we watch events unfold in Samson et Dalila, interpretation being left to each individual.

By paring down several theatrical elements to what she calls “abstract and minimalist staging”, Suzanne Chaundy’s direction ensures a focus on themes of “power, obsession, faith and betrayal”. Here, the emphasis is on the interplay between the characters, and it is noteworthy that she places “power” at the top of the list. Dalila’s arias are all about power, especially her Act 2 aria “Oh Love, from thy power let me borrow” – and what is Samson all about if not his physical power? 

The role of Samson also requires vocal power, and Rosario La Spina is just the tenor to supply it. Not only does his voice have the power to project to the furthest reaches of St Kilda’s Palais Theatre, it is also an instrument of great beauty. Vibrant and manly, the tone is gathered in a passionate somewhat Italianate style to convince an audience that this Samson really does have the wherewithal to bring the house down. Unlike Caruso, who also starred as Samson, La Spina has a large physical presence to add credibility to the role.

A mezzo-soprano would never have the cutting power of a rampant tenor, but Deborah Humble was a worthy partner for La Spina, her voice firm throughout the range and carrying the most gleaming allure as she luxuriated on the soaring phrases of the famous Act 2 aria “Mon cœur s’ouvre à ta voix”, (the so-called “Softly Awakes my Heart”) and the duet. Humble’s physical beauty, graceful movement and dramatic skills also enhanced her portrayal of one of history’s great femmes fatales. It is a big role, and Humble seemed to expand into it as opera progressed, her seductive duet with La Spina being the highlight it should be. She seemed to relish inhabiting the triumphant, sneering Dalila of Act 3.

Male power was asserted from the get go, with bass baritone Jeremy Kleeman strong, assertive and dynamic as Abimélech, “the governor of Gaza” (yes, Gaza!). I doubt that Kleeman is capable of putting in anything less than an excellent performance. Baritone Simon Meadows continued the male vocal heft with a vocally and physically authoritative performance as the High Priest of Dagon – a worthy adversary for La Spina’s Samson. It was exciting stuff.

To round out the male heavyweights, Eddie Muliaumaseali’i had all the vocal and physical gravitas that the role of the Old Hebrew calls for, his bass voice possessing the warmth and rounded deep resonance that has long made him a favourite with Melbourne Opera audiences – and beyond.

The minor solo roles of the two Philistines (Josh Erdelyi Gotz and Henry Shaw) and the Messenger (Asher Reichman) were all well sung. Reichman in particular can always be relied on to give a focused, fully engaged performance even when he is not actually singing.

The minimal staging, almost oratorio style, was largely effective, but having the orchestra deployed along the back of the stage rather than in the pit was not always ideal in terms of sound quality, particularly on the odd occasion when the chorus acted as a screen; however, the upside of this arrangement was that the singers’ voices were given prominence. It is not often that singers can compete with the brass section and win handsomely. There was also the issue of Harry Cope’s lighting design, which was occasionally so atmospherically subdued that lights from the music stands became the brightest objects on the stage. 

Elevated above the orchestra, the chorus tended to sound a little remote. In some respects this was effective and in keeping with the action, but when they came to the front of the stage the difference in power was striking. Whether as a crowd of Israelites or Philistines, together or in male or female sections, the singing was disciplined and full-bodied, the fugal sequence being particularly impressive. 

A successful component of the minimalist production values were Rose Chong’s costume designs. Whereas principal singers wore costumes in keeping with their various roles, the chorus wore uniform long black robes. The transition from Israelite to Philistine was the removal of head covering, which worked extremely well. Chaundy’s direction of the chorus as they stood aloft in rows, Greek chorus like, was inspired. The continuous slight movements, especially as hand and faces were softly illuminated against a black background were never intrusive, but enlivened what could have been static and dull. 

French opera can pose considerable challenges to a director when it comes to the ballet requirement. Apart from Dalila’s Act 3 aria of seduction, the music for the Bacchanale is the most familiar part of the opera, and it is long enough to be played as an item by symphony orchestras. For some, ballet are a highlight, for others something to be endured. Considering the limitations of space, the dancers (and choreographer, Chimene Steel-Prior) did a reasonably good job of providing visual interest that culminated in an attractive and beautifully lit tableau. What was most commendable was the way dance movement was integrated into other parts of the opera; it was not just “tacked on”. Jacob Battista’s set design, featuring a large round tilted platform (suggesting Samson’s millstone perhaps?) and two ramps were used to good advantage.

Like the chorus, the orchestra played with verve and precision under the baton of Raymond Lawrence. Anyone averse to opera ballet could just close the eyes and enjoy the music. Saint-Saëns’ score is unfailingly pleasing, and the orchestral playing of those repeated swirling wind motifs was tremendously evocative; it was passion and palpitating hearts for Dalila’s music. 

Considering Melbourne Opera’s financial constraints, the level of achievement of this little company that could (and consistently does) is phenomenal. To ensure viability, money has been wisely prioritised, with an emphasis on the quality of the performers and a reliance on the ingenuity of the creatives. Based on those two fundamentals, Melbourne Opera has produced an unmissable experience with this Samson et Dalila.

Photo credit: Robin Halls

__________________________________________________________________________

Heather Leviston attended Melbourne Opera’s production of “Samson et Dalila”, presented at the Palais Theatre, St Kilda on June 1, 2025.

Deborah HumbleJeremy KleemanMelbourne OperaRosario La SpinaSimon Meadows
0 FacebookTwitterLinkedinEmail
Heather Leviston

Heather Leviston has devoted much of her life to listening to classical music and attending concerts. An addiction to vocal and string music has led her to undertake extensive training in singing and perform as a member of the Victoria State Opera chorus and as a soloist with various musical organisations.

As a founding academic teacher of the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School, she has had the privilege of witnessing the progress of many talented students, keenly following their careers by attending their performances both in Australia and overseas.

As a reviewer, initially for artsHub, and also for Sounds like Sydney, she has been keen to bring attention to the fine music-making that is on offer in Australia, especially in the form of live performance. Heather is a valued member of Classical Melbourne’s editorial team, with her reviews of opera and vocal music valued by performers and audiences alike.

previous post
Australian String Quartet: Rapture
next post
Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

Related Posts

Melbourne Bach Choir: J S Bach – St John Passion

20th April, 2025

The Australian Boys Choir: Bach’s St Mark Passion

31st March, 2025

Melbourne Opera: Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg

18th February, 2025

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic Choir and Orchestra: Handel’s Messiah 2024

11th December, 2024

Viewpoint: The Herald Sun Aria Centenary Final 2024

22nd October, 2024

Victorian Opera: Eucalyptus

19th October, 2024

Events Calendar

42 events found.
  • June 2025

Calendar of Events

M Mon

T Tue

W Wed

T Thu

F Fri

S Sat

S Sun

2 events, 26

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Event Series
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

Get ready to cut loose!

The 80s phenomenon Footloose is hitting Australia—bigger, bolder, and more explosive than ever! This brand-new remastered production will have you dancing in the aisles to the iconic hits you know and love, including Holding Out for a Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It for the Boy, and, of course, the unforgettable title track, Footloose.

Join Ren, the city kid turned rebel with a cause, as he shakes up a small town where music and dancing are outlawed. With electrifying choreography, a feel-good story, and sizzling Australian talent, this smash-hit musical will leave you on your feet and cheering for more.
Don’t miss the fun, energy, and 80s nostalgia—playing for a strictly limited 3-week season.

$69 – $199
8:00 am - 9:30 pm

Paul McMillan – Berio to Bach

May 26 @ 8:00 am - 9:30 pm

Paul McMillan – Berio to Bach

Paul McMillan, viola PROGRAM Luciano BERIO   Viola Sequenza 6 Brett DEAN Intimate Decisions Matthew LAING  Liebeslied J. S. BACH   Cello…

$22

4 events, 27

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

6:30 pm - 7:45 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Open Rehearsal with Elim Chan

May 27 @ 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Open Rehearsal with Elim Chan

Take a peek behind the scenes at an open rehearsal with conductor Elim Chan. Join us for an hour in some…

$15.00 – $19.00
7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 27 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Sophie Rowell and Kristian Chong play Sutherland and Beethoven

May 27 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Sophie Rowell and Kristian Chong play Sutherland and Beethoven

Violinist Sophie Rowell is newly appointed to the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music as Associate Professor in Violin. Sophie and pianist Kristian…

4 events, 28

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

1:00 pm - 3:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 28 @ 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 28 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Celebrating 60 years of Music at Monash – Concert 1

May 28 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Celebrating 60 years of Music at Monash – Concert 1

Students from the Sir Zelman Cowen School of Music & Performance. Eliza Henson Gregg & Liesl Parnell, violin Layla Maitri, viola…

Free

4 events, 29

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

7:30 pm - 9:40 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

May 29 @ 7:30 pm - 9:40 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

From the noirish to the dramatic. Every note in Grieg’s Piano Concerto is a delight, from the iconic opening to the…

$75 – $139
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 29 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Ensemble Offspring – Double Symmetry

May 29 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Ensemble Offspring – Double Symmetry

Véronique Serret, violin Blair Harris, cello PROGRAM Erkki-Sven TÜÜR Synergie Kate MOORE Song of Ropes (solo cello) Cathy MILLIKEN Crie (solo…

$25 – $35

3 events, 30

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 30 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Seraphim Trio – Debussy and Tchaikovsky

May 30 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Seraphim Trio – Debussy and Tchaikovsky

Helen Ayres, violin Tim Nankervis, cello Anna Goldsworthy, piano Seraphim Trio is one of Australia’s most acclaimed chamber music groups, as…

$25 – $30

4 events, 31

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

2:00 pm - 4:10 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

May 31 @ 2:00 pm - 4:10 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

From the noirish to the dramatic. Every note in Grieg’s Piano Concerto is a delight, from the iconic opening to the…

$75 – $139
7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 31 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

Presented by: Opera Australia & JONES Theatrical Group Two legendary love stories. One unforgettable journey. HADESTOWN is now playing at Her…

$58 – $199
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Imaginista Quartet with Craig Hill

May 31 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Imaginista Quartet with Craig Hill

Zoë Black, Liisa Pallandi - violins Caroline Henbest - viola Josephine Vains - cello With guest Craig Hill - clarinet Bringing…

$25 – $35

3 events, 1

2025-05-20

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Acord: Dragonslayers

June 1 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Acord: Dragonslayers

Dragonslayers is Acord's second concert in the 2025 series at Kathleen Syme and it's a cracker. The central protagonists are, interestingly…

$10 – $20
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

June 1 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

Melbourne Opera will stage Saint-Saëns’ grand opera Samson & Delilah from 1 June at the Palais Theatre. One of the greatest…

$69 – $199

2 events, 2

6:30 pm - 7:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Scheherazade Quick Fix at Half Six

June 2 @ 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Scheherazade Quick Fix at Half Six

Brine and seaspray Rimsky-Korsakov’s sweeping symphonic suite follows the stories of One Thousand and One Nights, with music as immersive as…

$20 – $99
7:30 pm - 9:10 pm

Stephen Hough

June 2 @ 7:30 pm - 9:10 pm

Stephen Hough

Experience one of the most distinctive artists of his generation. Sir Stephen Hough returns for a one-night-only performance of Romantic era…

$67 – $115

2 events, 3

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Live at Toorak: Richard Tognetti x Konstantin Shamray

June 3 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Live at Toorak: Richard Tognetti x Konstantin Shamray

Experience the electrifying synergy of Richard Tognetti AO, the visionary Artistic Director of the ACO, and Konstantin Shamray, Australia’s most formidable…

$37.83
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

June 3 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

Melbourne Opera will stage Saint-Saëns’ grand opera Samson & Delilah from 1 June at the Palais Theatre. One of the greatest…

$69 – $199

2 events, 4

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: First Voices Showcase

June 4 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: First Voices Showcase

Celebrate one of MSO’s most exciting artist development programs, the First Voices First Nations Composer program at this showcase event. Hear…

7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 4 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs…

$70 – $150

3 events, 5

7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

June 5 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

The Power of Love versus the Love of Power – an adaptation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Traditionally spanning four days, Wagner’s…

$55
7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera: BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

June 5 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera: BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

The Power of Love versus the Love of Power – an adaptation of Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Traditionally spanning four days, Wagner’s…

$55
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 5 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs…

$70 – $150

3 events, 6

7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 6 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

How many insults can you hear before you have to stand up and defend the woman you love? Tom faces just…

$35
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: The Crossing Machine

June 6 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: The Crossing Machine

Matthew Rigby & Marianne Rothschild, violins Cora Teeuwen, viola Karina Di Sisto, cello The Crossing Machine performs a concert of 'what…

$22 – $30
9:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Secret Symphony

June 6 @ 9:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Secret Symphony

Showcasing the MSO in unexpected locations across Melbourne since 2015, Secret Symphony is a bit like a treasure hunt for classical…

$35

3 events, 7

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 7 @ 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs…

$70 – $150
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 7 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

How many insults can you hear before you have to stand up and defend the woman you love? Tom faces just…

$35
7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 7 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

Watch the wand choose the wizard, a troll run amok and magic mirrors in high-definition while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra performs…

$70 – $150

2 events, 8

10:30 am - 9:30 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 8 @ 10:30 am - 9:30 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 8 @ 10:30 am - 11:30 am Australia’s Energy Transformation in the Regions: Dietmar Tourbier & Peter McTaggart Woodend Community…

Various
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 8 @ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

How many insults can you hear before you have to stand up and defend the woman you love? Tom faces just…

$35

1 event, 9

10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 9 @ 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 9 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Sheila Drummond Memorial Lecture:  Hot off the Press: Margaret Simons, Don Watson and…

Various

1 event, 10

7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Northern Lights

June 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Northern Lights

Swedish-Norwegian violinist Johan Dalene makes his Australian debut alongside much-loved pianist Jennifer Marten-Smith. Swedish-Norwegian violinist Johan Dalene grabbed the world’s attention…

$49 – $153

0 events, 11

2 events, 12

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 12 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

Symphonic powerhouses The twentieth century produced some of the most passionate and dramatic music ever written. MSO Principal Conductor Benjamin Northey…

$20 – $139
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Invenio – Bits and Pieces

June 12 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Invenio – Bits and Pieces

Adventurous Melbourne vocal ensemble, Invenio, celebrates its 15-year anniversary with a program that highlights material from across their prolific catalogue of…

$25 – $30

2 events, 13

7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 13 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

Symphonic powerhouses The twentieth century produced some of the most passionate and dramatic music ever written. MSO Principal Conductor Benjamin Northey…

$20 – $139
8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato – Danaë Killian: Piano Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

June 13 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato – Danaë Killian: Piano Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Well-known for her boldly imaginative explorations of modern music, expressionist pianist Danaë Killian returns to the Orphean world and otherworld of…

$25 – $35

6 events, 14

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

Joseph Haydn: The Creation PLEASE NOTE VENUE AND DATE CHANGE TWO SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCES: SATURDAY 14 JUNE, at 2pm and 7pm  NOW…

$35.00 – $99.00
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

Joseph Haydn: The Creation PLEASE NOTE VENUE AND DATE CHANGE TWO SPECTACULAR PERFORMANCES: SATURDAY 14 JUNE, at 2pm and 7pm  NOW…

$35.00 – $99.00
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Ensemble Liaison: Ensemble Liaison with Brigid Coleridge

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Ensemble Liaison: Ensemble Liaison with Brigid Coleridge

Ensemble Liaison at Hanson Dyer Hall. Ensemble Liaison & Friends is a unique concert series presented by three internationally acclaimed musicians…

$42 – $53
7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

Clay shooting—with percussionists in the firing lines. And… pull! Pigeons is a clay shooting event, but the birds are the musicians…

$59
7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

Clay shooting—with percussionists in the firing lines. And… pull! Pigeons is a clay shooting event, but the birds are the musicians…

$59 – $69
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

Symphonic powerhouses The twentieth century produced some of the most passionate and dramatic music ever written. MSO Principal Conductor Benjamin Northey…

$20 – $139

2 events, 15

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tempo Rubato – MATTUTINO: Rio Xiang and Cedar Newman

June 15 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tempo Rubato – MATTUTINO: Rio Xiang and Cedar Newman

Echoes of Us: Sonatas for Piano and Violin Rio Xiang, piano Cedar Newman, violin Sonata repertoire draws two instruments and multiple…

$25
2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Preston Symphony Orchestra: Resurgence

June 15 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Preston Symphony Orchestra: Resurgence

The Preston Symphony Orchestra’s June concert shines a light on women composers – starting with the magical work by Lili Boulanger,…

$25

0 events, 16

0 events, 17

1 event, 18

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Tudor Choristers: TCHAIKOVSKY’S SACRED MUSIC

June 18 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Tudor Choristers: TCHAIKOVSKY’S SACRED MUSIC

The Tudor Choristers present TCHAIKOVSKY’S SACRED MUSIC with Carlos del Cueto | Music Director Experience the heavenly beauty of Tchaikovsky’s sacred…

$32.

0 events, 19

0 events, 20

0 events, 21

0 events, 22

0 events, 23

0 events, 24

0 events, 25

0 events, 26

0 events, 27

0 events, 28

1 event, 29

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Thomas Heywood – Concert Organ Spectacular!

June 29 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Thomas Heywood – Concert Organ Spectacular!

Celebrating the 200th Anniversary of Organ Music in Australia  (1825 - 2025) Melbourne Town Hall – Sunday 29 June at 2pm…

Free

0 events, 30

0 events, 1

0 events, 2

0 events, 3

0 events, 4

0 events, 5

0 events, 6

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 26 @ 8:00 am - 9:30 pm

Paul McMillan – Berio to Bach

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 27 @ 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Open Rehearsal with Elim Chan

May 27 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 27 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Sophie Rowell and Kristian Chong play Sutherland and Beethoven

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 28 @ 1:00 pm - 3:30 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 28 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 28 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Celebrating 60 years of Music at Monash – Concert 1

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 29 @ 7:30 pm - 9:40 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

May 29 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 29 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Ensemble Offspring – Double Symmetry

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 30 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 30 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Seraphim Trio – Debussy and Tchaikovsky

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

May 31 @ 2:00 pm - 4:10 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Grieg’s Piano Concerto

May 31 @ 7:30 pm - 10:00 pm Event Series

Opera Australia: Hades Town

May 31 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Imaginista Quartet with Craig Hill

May 20
May 20 @ 7:00 pm - June 1 @ 9:00 pm Event Series

FOOTLOOSE: THE MUSICAL

June 1 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm

Acord: Dragonslayers

June 1 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

June 2
June 2 @ 6:30 pm - 7:45 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Scheherazade Quick Fix at Half Six

June 2 @ 7:30 pm - 9:10 pm

Stephen Hough

June 3
June 3 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Live at Toorak: Richard Tognetti x Konstantin Shamray

June 3 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Opera presents the grand French opera Samson & Delilah

June 4
June 4 @ 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: First Voices Showcase

June 4 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 5
June 5 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

June 5 @ 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

More Than Opera: BrunnhAilde – A Wagnerian Concert

June 5 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 6
June 6 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 6 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato: The Crossing Machine

June 6 @ 9:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Secret Symphony

June 7
June 7 @ 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 7 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 7 @ 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone™ in Concert

June 8
June 8 @ 10:30 am - 9:30 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 8 @ 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm Event Series

Forest Collective: Fat Pig – The Opera

June 9
June 9 @ 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

Woodend Winter Arts Festival 2025

June 10
June 10 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Musica Viva Australia: Northern Lights

  • There are no events on this day.
June 12
June 12 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 12 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Invenio – Bits and Pieces

June 13
June 13 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 13 @ 8:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Tempo Rubato – Danaë Killian: Piano Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

June 14
June 14 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Ensemble Liaison: Ensemble Liaison with Brigid Coleridge

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 15
June 15 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tempo Rubato – MATTUTINO: Rio Xiang and Cedar Newman

June 15 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Preston Symphony Orchestra: Resurgence

June 14
June 14 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm Event Series

Royal Melbourne Philharmonic: HAYDN’S The Creation

June 14 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Ensemble Liaison: Ensemble Liaison with Brigid Coleridge

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 8:45 pm

Speak Percussion: Pigeons

June 14 @ 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm Event Series

Melbourne Symphony Orchestra: A Reflection in Time

June 15
June 15 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Tempo Rubato – MATTUTINO: Rio Xiang and Cedar Newman

June 15 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm

Preston Symphony Orchestra: Resurgence

  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
June 18
June 18 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Tudor Choristers: TCHAIKOVSKY’S SACRED MUSIC

  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
June 29
June 29 @ 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Thomas Heywood – Concert Organ Spectacular!

  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
  • There are no events on this day.
View Calendar

Classic Melbourne’s reviews policy

audio
Our point of differenceby Editor Suzanne Yanko

Your browser does not support the audio element.

Follow us on Facebook

Classic Melbourne

Melbourne Arts Centre

Melbourne Arts Centre

Melbourne Recital Centre

Melbourne Recital Centre

Introducing Classic Melbourne

audio
Speech at launch by Conductor Andrew Wailes

Your browser does not support the audio element.

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Email

@2019 - All Right Reserved.

Classic Melbourne
  • News
  • Reviews
  • Calendar
    • Terms and conditions
    • Apply to post your events
    • Post Your Event
  • Newsletter Signup
  • About
  • Contact

Read alsox

Melbourne Youth Orchestra: Mahler 1

13th June, 2019

Australian Brandenburg Orchestra: Vivaldi’s Venice

9th March, 2020

Monteverdi’s Vespers: Ensemble Gombert and Ludovico’s Band

3rd October, 2019