Purpose-built stage for operatic performance at the WACA Ground

The Western Australian Cricket Association (WACA) Ground has had a purpose-built stage constructed for its hosting of Georges Bizet's operatic masterpiece Carmen in association with Perth Festival.

Carmen had originally been scheduled for 2022 but was postponed due to the pandemic. The large-scale outdoor arena spectacular will now take place over two nights, 24th and 25th February 2023. The story of an epic love triangle, with betrayals and tragedy, will be brought to life by some of Australia's finest singers and tremendous local talent including rising stars.

The performances feature more than 150 singers and musicians, including the West Australian Opera (WAO) Chorus, the WAO Children's Chorus, and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra. Sung in French, with English subtitles, there will be incredible costumes and lighting, including dazzling projections on the iconic WACA Square. More than 8,000 people are due to attend.

The WAO is supported by the Western Australian Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries and Lotterywest, and the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts. While Carmen is supported by the Australian Government through the Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) Fund.

WA Cricket received funding to upgrade the WACA Ground into a 10,000 seat, multi-sport and community facility as part of the Perth City Deal funded by the Australian Government and State Government and the City of Perth. The WACA Ground Improvement project is expected to be completed by late-2025.

WA Culture and the Arts Minister David Templeman shared "The WACA has long been a place for people to come together and connect due to its rich cricket history. Having opera at the ground is a marvellous example of activating the East Perth space as an inclusive community venue for live culture and arts entertainment.”