The Tales of Hoffmann by Offenbach, Sat 25 Aug 2018, From (2018/2018), Directed by David Brennan, Conductor Luke Spicer, Town Hall, Rockdale, Australia

Jacques Offenbach's grand fantasy opera, The Tales of Hoffmann was the composer's final work and premiered in Paris in February 1881, (without the now very famous Venice Act). Offenbach did not live to complete the opera, having died four months before the premiere. It is considered by many to be his "masterpiece" and is based on three short stories by the German author and poet E.T.A. Hoffmann, who is also the opera's main character. It is a firm staple and favourite in the repertory of opera companies worldwide. This year is Rockdale Opera Company's 70th anniversary and we are very proud to present this new production of Offenbach's most cherished work, not seen on the Rockdale stage since 1994. The opera is filled with wonderful and dramatic opportunities for superb singing from a large cast of principals together with the ensemble. Amongst its most familiar music is the celebrated Doll Song and the very well-known Barcarolle.