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State Opera was established in 1976 and forms part of the extraordinary cultural legacy of Premier Don Dunstan. It has a proud history of firsts and has always been at the forefront of new operatic works in Australia.

Arias from the Archives celebrates some of the milestone moments from the company’s 44-year history and showcases powerful operatic scenes from these works.

Performed by current artists from the company and recorded at the Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre, Arias from the Archives is a celebration of the power of the voice and the ability of opera to transform the listener. We do hope you enjoy.

The project was conceived during the COVID-19 global pandemic.

Dead Man Walking

Desiree Frahn performs Be careful (people have always told me)

Sister Helen’s aria from Act One – her soliloquy on the long drive to the Louisiana State Penitentiary to meet de Rocher for the very first time.

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La Boheme

Pelham Andrews performs Vecchia zimarra senti (Coat Aria)

After Mimi has collapsed on the staircase to the attic room, she is carried into the room. On the edge of death, she says that her hands are cold. In order to buy her something to keep her hands warm, Musetta pawns her jewelry and Colline decides to pawn his old overcoat, to which he sings farewell.

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Cloudstreet

Joanna McWaters performs Dolly’s Aria

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Little Women

Pelham Andrews performs Kennst du das land?

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