Perth Festival's operatic spectacular postponed until 2023

Perth Festival has advised that West Australian Opera’s spectacular presentation of Carmen – scheduled for 25th and 26th February 2022 at the WACA Ground - has been postponed until 2023 due to the current Omicron outbreak in Western Australia.

West Australian Opera’s Chairman, Andrew Pascoe notes “with the increasing uncertainty around COVID-19 we have taken this decision following consultation with our stakeholders including the State government and our performance partners. We are grateful to patrons for their understanding.

“The developing Omicron outbreak, the uncertainty around COVID-19 case numbers and the possibility of further restrictions mean the event has had to be postponed.

“This most recent outbreak has created significant logistical issues, particularly with the director and conductor being interstate. And the uncertainty around the outbreak creates prospective health and safety issues for our cast, crew and audiences that we cannot ignore. These issues are particularly acute for a production of the size and scale of Carmen. We appreciate that this unprecedented situation has called for sacrifices by all West Australians. The Opera family is not immune from that."

West Australian Opera’s Executive Director Carolyn Chard advises "the wellbeing of our people is critical. Providing a safe working environment for 150 in rehearsals and performances and for 5000 patrons at each performance is our highest priority and one which we cannot guarantee at this time.

“I gratefully acknowledge the considerable work and preparation by all of our colleagues including our West Australian Opera staff, our artists, creative team, production, marketing and technical teams, chorus, children’s chorus, West Australian Symphony Orchestra, Perth Festival and WACA Ground and all of our partners, donors, patrons and suppliers. We appreciate your ongoing support.”

Perth Festival Executive Director Nathan Bennett added “we appreciate the public health measures designed to keep everyone COVIDSafe. Our top priority at Perth Festival is the safety of our audiences and the general public, who are all making sacrifices for the shared benefit of our community.

“Though some shows could not proceed in this year’s Festival, we still have many free and ticketed events for people to enjoy in COVIDSafe venues across music, dance, theatre, visual arts, film and literature from 11th February to 6th March.”

“Perth Festival looks forward to safely welcoming our audiences to celebrate our amazing artists and stories throughout the three-week Festival under the theme of Wardan (Ocean).

“Under WA’s updated Safe Transition Plan, the Festival will be working closely with the relevant authorities and implementing all COVIDSafe requirements to protect our staff, artists, patrons and the wider community.”

Ticketholders for Carmen will be notified directly. There is no need to contact the box office.

Perth Festival organisers are reminding everyone to get double-vaccinated (and a third dose when eligible), and to have their proof of vaccination and ID ready to present upon entry to applicable venues and events.

More information on Perth Festival events at perthfestival.com.au