The highly anticipated production of Orpheus and Eurydice is set to enthrall audiences at Melbourne’s Regent Theatre from December 2 to 5, 2023. This collaboration between Circa and Opera Australia promises to deliver a unique interpretation of the ancient Greek myth, combining circus artistry with operatic performance. The show has already toured in Brisbane, Sydney, and Edinburgh, receiving acclaim for its innovative approach to storytelling.
A Timeless Tale of Love and Loss
The story revolves around two lovers, Orpheus and Eurydice, who face unimaginable challenges. When Eurydice dies and descends into the underworld, Orpheus bravely follows her, given a single chance to bring her back to life. The catch is simple yet profound: he must not look back at her until they reach the surface, or she will perish forever. Billie Wilson-Coffey, an acrobat in the show, describes this rendition as “really stark,” noting it is set in an asylum, which adds a contemporary twist to the classic tale.
Fellow performer Lachlan Sukroo emphasizes the universal themes of the narrative: “It’s a story of desire, of love… emotions that everyone has felt.” He believes that audiences will connect deeply with Orpheus’s journey, hoping for his success as it stems from a place of selflessness. Both Wilson-Coffey and Sukroo honed their skills at the National Institute of Circus Arts in Melbourne, where they first discovered their passion for circus arts.
Innovative Performance Elements
The production features a remarkable ensemble of 11 acrobats from Circa, complemented by 28 performers from the Opera Australia chorus along with the two principal artists. Sukroo notes that Circa’s mission is to redefine how circus is presented, pushing boundaries and exploring new ways to convey emotion. “We represent the feelings experienced by the characters at pivotal moments,” he explains.
Wilson-Coffey adds that their performances embody aspects of Orpheus’s psyche, showcasing the emotional depth of the narrative. The use of aerial silks, one of Wilson-Coffey’s specializations, promises to add a stunning visual layer to the production. “It’s nice to be back here,” she reflects, acknowledging the significance of returning to her roots in the local circus community.
The enduring relevance of Orpheus and Eurydice lies in its exploration of profound human experiences. Wilson-Coffey articulates this connection: “It’s an ultimate story of love—and love can’t exist without tragedy and loss.” The myth’s ability to resonate across time and cultures speaks to the depth of human emotion, making it a rich source for reinterpretation through various artistic mediums.
As the production prepares to open in Melbourne, it promises not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and reflection on the complexities of love and sacrifice. Tickets for Orpheus and Eurydice are available for the limited run, offering a chance to witness a captivating blend of circus and opera that celebrates one of humanity’s oldest stories.
