Candide

Part opera, part musical and entirely irreverent, this sumptuous new production celebrates the humour and wit in Voltaire's madcap tale of mindless optimism. Lurching from European operetta to Latin American dance rhythms and everything in between, Bernstein's celebrated score charts the journey of Candide (James Benjamin Rodgers) and his sweetheart, Cunégonde (Amelia Berry), as they try to make sense of a chaotic world populated by a seemingly endless cast of vicious, greedy and manipulative characters played by Kanen Breen, Jacqueline Dark, James Harrison, Robert Tucker and Byron Coll.

Taking on an array of roles is a versatile and brilliant Australasian cast, led by the incomparable theatrical legend Reg Livermore, in his New Zealand debut. The Great Hall will be refashioned into ‘The Best of All Possible Worlds’, directed by New Zealand Opera’'s Stuart Maunder and designed by Tony Award-winner Roger Kirk. Hear Bernstein's glittering music in all its wit and audacity, conducted by Wyn Davies and performed by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

EXTRA: Pre-Show Talks
Free and open to all ticket-holders, Pre-Show Talks are presented by a member of the NZ Opera team prior to mainstage performances. Guaranteed to enhance your experience of a night at the opera, these talks provide a fascinating insight into the history of the opera, the composer and the production. No registration necessary, just come along on the night. 
Fri 23 Mar & Sat 24 Mar 6.30pm, Sun 25 Mar 4pm
Great Hall, Auckland Town Hall