A Streetcar Named Desire

Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire remains one of the greatest American plays of the twentieth century.

The story of a faded Southern belle caught between a grand vision of herself and the harsh realities of life has resonated through popular culture for decades. First staged in 1947, Williams’ masterpiece is continually revived, while its screen adaptations have become iconic, from Marlon Brando’s definitive Stanley Kowalski to Cate Blanchett’s unforgettable portrayal of a similarly fractured heroine in Blue Jasmine.

In his operatic adaptation, André Previn brings the blues-infused atmosphere of New Orleans vividly to life, drawing out the story’s innate musicality. Richly lyrical and deeply affecting, the score illuminates Blanche’s fragile self-image and desperate longing for beauty and escape, set against the brutal force of an emerging modern world.

Celebrated soprano Antoinette Halloran is set to deliver a tour-de-force performance as Blanche DuBois, joined by a powerhouse cast including Samuel Dundas as the thuggish Stanley, Alessia Pintabona as Blanche’s younger sister, Stella, and Alexander Lewis as Blanche’s possible love interest and saviour, Mitch.

Director Dean Bryant returns to Victorian Opera following his acclaimed production of Candide, with conductor Brett Weymark leading Orchestra Victoria.