The domed reading room has been a place of inspiration and creativity since its completion in 1913. It also proved to be a stunning location for a powerful performance by composer Iain Grandage and mezzo-soprano Dimity Shepherd at the announcement of Victorian Opera’s 2014 season titled ‘Chapter Two’.

The duo performed a piece from a new opera called The Riders. Based on the Tim Winton story, The Riders was commissioned by Victorian Opera as part of a season inspired by significant works of literature.

‘Finding its origins from historic and modern texts, next year’s season pulls from the page-to-the-stage epic stories of love, sacrifice and the fleeting illusion of ‘happily ever after’,’ said Richard Mills, Artistic Director of Victorian Opera.

The literary themed works presented in the 2014 season include:

  • La Traviata – based on the Alexander Dumas novel The Lady of the Camelias.
  • Into the Woods and Hansel and Gretel – based on stores by the Brothers Grimm.
  • The Riders  – based on Tim Winton’s novel The Riders.
  • Norma – based on the work of poet Alexandre Soumet
  • The Play of Herod – based on the medieval Fleury Playbook or Livre de Jeux de Fleury

The Library holds a wonderful selection of theatre programs dating back to the earliest opera performances in Victoria. A selection of these was made available for viewing at the launch.

Find out more about the Library’s theatre program collection.

View the full Victorian Opera season.

Iain Grandage and mezzo-soprano Dimity Shepherd perform. Image Charlie Kinross.

Iain Grandage and mezzo-soprano Dimity Shepherd perform. Image Charlie Kinross.

Minister for the Arts Heidi Victoria, Jane Hemstritch, Board Chairman, Victorian Opera and Richard Mills, Artistic Director, Victorian Opera view programs from the State library collection

From left: Minister for the Arts Heidi Victoria, Jane Hemstritch Board Chairman Victorian Opera and Richard Mills Artistic Director Victorian Opera view programs from the State Library collection. Image: Victorian Opera.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*