The world’s most iconic love story comes to life in Adelaide this October 2025

A promotional poster for Romeo & Juliet
Shakespeare’s legendary tale, Romeo and Juliet, has captured hearts for centuries. But in 1867 French composer, Charles Gounod, reimagined this iconic story into something even more incredible, a sweeping opera of love, beauty and heartache.

Gounod’s ROMÉO ET JULIETTE, returns to the Adelaide stage for the first time in twenty-five years. Reimagined in a new production of epic scale at Her Majesty’s Theatre. 

Performed in the original language of French, this production releases the full grandeur of Gounod’s score, immersing audiences in soaring lyricism and emotional depths that only opera can achieve. 

A woman with her eyes closed, appearing serene and contemplative in a peaceful setting.

Berlin-based Australian star soprano, Siobhan Stagg, and powerful tenor Kyle Stegall lead an all-star cast as the star-crossed lovers, alongside London-based baritone Morgan Pearse as MERCUTIO and South Australian soprano Charlotte Kelso, returning home as STÉPHANO.

Directed by Rodula Gaitanou and designed by takis, direct from working in international opera houses, these creatives reimagine Gounod’s opera. Crafting a vivid world where transcendent love prevails amongst all tragedy.

With hand-dyed fabrics, elaborate headpieces and costumes that are a feast for the eyes, realised and crafted by local artisans at the State Opera Studio in Netley, creating a runway couture look. Imposing set pieces morph into dramatically different settings and use fifteen kilometres of fibre-optic lighting. 

A man with a prominent mustache, smiling and looking directly at the camera.

Conducted by State Opera South Australia’s very own Artistic Director, Dane Lam, fifty locally based singers and musicians bring this show to life, through the State Opera Chorus and the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra. 

This global co-production between State Opera South Australia, West Australian Opera and Irish National Opera, makes its debut right here in Adelaide from 23 October 2025.


Discover how this classic story is told through Gounod’s unbeatable score and join us at ROMÉO ET JULIETTE at Her Majesty’s Theatre from 23 October to 1 November 2025. Tickets from $79, Under 30 for $35! Book tickets at stateopera.com.au

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