News

1 August 1930–7 August 2025

There are some people who have such a profound influence on your life – and especially a life in the Theatre – that it is impossible to separate them from almost every single moment and memory of your journey. Neale Alan Warrington, who has passed away in Melbourne, was one such person in my life. And the lives of many, many, others.

Producers have today confirmed that Georgina Hopson (Titanique, Phantom of the Opera) will lead the cast of ANASTASIA, which will have its Australian premiere at the Regent Theatre in Melbourne in December 2025 before touring to Perth and Sydney in 2026. 

Opera Australia has unveiled its 70th anniversary season for 2026. Acting CEO Simon Militano said Opera Australia’s 70th anniversary season honours the talented creators, performers, loyal supporters and audiences who have shaped the company’s legacy across seven decades. 

“We’re proud to present a season of extraordinary productions that revive some operatic masterpieces and crowd favourites and invest in new productions that shine a light on emerging talent and stories that reflect the diversity of Australian communities.

Opera Australia has announced the return season of The Phantom of the Opera, to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage in 2026, kicking off the show’s global 40th anniversary celebrations.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera has played to more than 160 million people in 205 cities across 58 territories, and in 21 languages.