State Opera South Australia is the opera company of South Australia. Established in 1976 by an Act of Parliament (the State Opera of South Australia Act), State Opera forms part of the extraordinary cultural legacy of Premier Don Dunstan in South Australia.
State Opera upholds its commitment to more opera for more people through the presentation of exceptional productions of the operatic canon alongside engaging productions of contemporary operatic works, all the while championing Australian talent on and off the stage.
A new era
2023 saw Mark Taylor, Executive Director, and Ashley Miller, Chair of the Board, settle into their new roles alongside Artistic Director, Dane Lam, bringing new energy and fresh ideas.
Major outdoor operatic events
Taking over iconic destinations has become a trademark of State Opera’s more opera mission and includes Carmen in the Square (Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga 2019), Carmina Burana (Memorial Drive, 2020 – COVID-19 cancelled) and Bohème on the Beach (Glenelg Beach, 2022)
Championing Australian Talent
From creation to ovation, an opera company is nothing without its talent. State Opera has made a firm commitment to championing Australian and particularly South Australian talent on and off the stage, ensuring that we support the education, development, creative and performance opportunities that our talented people and audiences deserve.
Our Patrons
Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia, and Mr Rod Bunten.