Drugs, guns and burning lust. Victorian Opera’s striking new production of The Coronation of Poppea lays bare the ruthless pursuit of power, at the Palais Theatre from 30 June – 4 July. Monteverdi’s masterpiece is reimagined far from Ancient Rome, unfolding instead in the volatile underbelly of a 1980s nightclub — a world of desire, betrayal and bloodshed inspired by the infamous Hotel Babylon in Brian De Palma’s Scarface (1983).
Power, politics and passion take centre stage in this provocative love story between Nero and his obsession, Poppea. As they ruthlessly pursue their forbidden love, a trail of death and destruction is left in their wake.
Conductor Chad Kelly returns to Victorian Opera (VO) after last year’s hit production of Mozart’s Abduction, leading Elena Kats-Chernin’s re-orchestration of the opera; which premiered at Komische Opera Berlin. Infused with subtle shades of jazz, the score pulses with urgency and intimacy.
The production is directed by Sam Strong (Echo and Narcissus/Cassandra), designed by Anna Cordingley (Salome) and lit by Matt Scott (Candide).
At the heart of this sensual drama, baritone Samuel Dundas and soprano Meechot Marrero star as Nero and Poppea. The duo is joined by a notable cast including Margaret Trubiano, David Greco, Jeremy Kleeman, Louis Hurley, Mia Robinson and Amelia Wawrzon. The production also features current VO Opera Prize winners Alessia Pintabona, Rachael Joyce and Bailey Montgomerie, as well as former Opera Prize recipient Douglas Kelly.
Victorian Opera’s Artistic Director Stuart Maunder AM notes:
We present our bold new version of The Coronation of Poppea under the baton of the dynamic Chad Kelly and helmed by the visionary director Sam Strong. This piece is an extraordinary fusion of power, politics and sensuality, with unbearably exquisite music. Who knew Monteverdi would still be so relevant today?
Season Details
Venue: Palais Theatre
Date: 30 June – 4 July 2026
For more information click HERE
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