BREAKING: Former Opera Australia artistic director Lyndon Terracini has officially launched the Handa Opera at Millthorpe, bringing world-class music to rural New South Wales. This innovative festival, set to expand its program in April 2026, aims to redefine operatic experiences in country settings.
As Terracini enjoys a glass of red wine at the bustling Millthorpe Hotel, he reflects on the success of last year’s debut, which sold out entirely. “It went very well,” he confirmed, noting the strong support from both the community and patrons. The festival features acclaimed artists including Italian bass Ferruccio Furlanetto and French-Russian mezzo-soprano Elena Gabouri, marking a significant moment in Australian opera.
Terracini, who left Opera Australia in 2022 amid internal challenges, sees this venture as a homecoming. His ties to the region run deep; he purchased a historic 1861 homestead nearby, returning to roots in a place where his mother was born. “It’s really using everything that’s so wonderful about this place in the best possible way,” he stated.
The festival is backed by Japanese billionaire Haruhisa Handa, who also supports Terracini’s Sydney Harbour project. “I’ve been in the business all my life and, fortunately, people trust me,” Terracini remarked on securing high-profile talent for the rural venue. With the Millthorpe hall adjacent to a fine dining restaurant and a local winery, the festival promises to enhance cultural offerings in the area.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Terracini is embracing a slower lifestyle, returning to his childhood passion for pigeon racing. He plans to have around 30 racing birds ready by winter, showcasing a unique blend of country life and artistic ambition. “These pigeons find their way home from Wilcannia or Broken Hill in a day – it is extraordinary,” he shared.
The 2025 pilot festival was a calculated risk, aimed at creating an authentic operatic experience in a community setting rather than merely hosting a touring show. The local involvement includes open rehearsals, inviting residents to engage and connect with the production process.
As Terracini prepares for the next season, he reflects on his journey. “You’ve got to have some sort of idea about your end date because you can’t keep doing it forever – people get sick of you,” he said, highlighting the importance of innovation in maintaining relevance in the arts.
The excitement builds as the community looks forward to the return of world-class performances in a charming rural setting. Residents are already buzzing with anticipation, eager for more opportunities to celebrate culture in their town.
Terracini’s commitment to integrating local stories into the festival underscores a growing movement towards community-centered arts in Australia. As he leaves the pub, he congratulates a local on winning a meat raffle, highlighting the blend of tradition and modernity that defines life in Millthorpe.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Handa Opera at Millthorpe continues to evolve and captivate audiences, both locally and beyond.
