Australian opera news & reviews
Opera for everyone. News, reviews, and the stories behind the curtain.
Honest coverage of Australian opera — from opening nights to arts policy, emerging talent to technology on stage. No snobbery required.
What we cover
- Performance reviews and season previews
- Arts funding and industry news
- Emerging Australian opera talent
- Technology in opera and performing arts
What you can expect
- Insider perspectives from the industry
- Accessible writing for all experience levels
- Honest opinions and strong takes
- Practical guides for new opera-goers
Latest posts
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Cultural Institutions and AI Strategy — What's Actually Happening
Beyond the hype, how are Australian museums, galleries, and performing arts companies approaching AI strategy? Margot Bellini investigates.
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Getting into Puccini — A Starting Guide
New to opera and wondering where to start with Puccini? Former chorus member Margot Bellini maps out the best entry points to his glorious world.
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8 of the Best Opera Recordings of the Last Decade
From revelatory Handel to searing Janáček, Margot Bellini picks eight outstanding opera recordings released between 2016 and 2026.
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Audience Development Strategies in a Post-Pandemic World
How are Australian opera companies rebuilding audiences after years of disruption? Margot Bellini looks at what's working and what isn't.
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The Problem with Opera Snobbery
Opera's biggest threat isn't funding cuts or streaming — it's the gatekeeping from within. Margot Bellini on why snobbery is killing audiences.
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How to Read an Opera Program Like a Pro
Opera programs are packed with information, but they can feel overwhelming. Here's how to get the most out of yours before the curtain rises.
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Virtual Assistants and Chatbots in Arts Ticketing — Where Are We?
Arts organisations are testing AI chatbots for ticket sales and customer service. Some are working well. Others are a mess. Here's the honest picture.
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Opera Galas Are Overrated (There, I Said It)
Margot Bellini makes the case that opera galas — those glittery greatest-hits concerts — might actually be hurting the art form more than helping it.
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Understanding the Orchestra Pit — What's Happening Down There
Ever wondered what goes on in the orchestra pit during an opera? Former chorus member Margot Bellini explains the hidden world beneath the stage.
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How Australian Arts Organisations Are Experimenting with AI
From Opera Australia to state galleries, Australian arts bodies are cautiously testing AI tools. Here's what's actually happening behind the scenes.
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Opera Queensland Announces Partnerships With Regional Venues for 2026
Opera Queensland is expanding into regional Queensland through new venue partnerships, bringing professional opera to communities beyond Brisbane.
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Taking Kids to the Opera: A Survival Guide
Thinking about taking your children to see an opera? Margot Bellini's practical, no-panic guide covers what to expect, what to bring, and when to bail.
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6 Australian Opera Singers to Watch in 2026
From rising stars to mid-career breakthroughs, Margot Bellini picks six Australian opera singers you should have on your radar this year.
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Predictive Analytics and the Future of Opera Programming Decisions
Opera companies are starting to use data to decide what to stage and when. Margot Bellini explores how predictive analytics is shaping seasons.
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Why We Need More Diverse Casting in Australian Opera
Australian opera has a diversity problem — on stage and in the pit. Margot Bellini argues for change that goes beyond tokenism and enriches the art form.
Supported by
Opera Opera is supported by Team400, AI consultants in Sydney helping arts and cultural organisations adopt AI tools for ticketing, audience engagement, and operations. See also AI Agency Sydney and AI Consulting Company Sydney.