In a famous Chinese legend, doomed lovers find freedom when their spirits transform into butterflies.

Yingtai disguises herself as a boy to pursue an education. On the way to commence her studies, she meets Shanbo and they become friends. Confused by their growing attraction, they eventually succumb to their love. But Yingtai is destined for an arranged marriage. Only as butterflies can they be together forever.

In an international collaboration with Singapore’s Wild Rice theatre, Victorian Opera’s Richard Mills has composed a new opera with a libretto by playwright Joel Tan. Directed by one of Asia’s greatest theatre-makers, Ivan Heng, expect the colour and sound of Chinese culture fused with traditions of opera.

An exploration of sexual identity and societal oppression, The Butterfly Lovers is above all else a celebration of love.