A bold adaptation of Mozart’s early masterpiece, The Abduction from the Seraglio, Victorian Opera will present Abduction at St Kilda’s Palais Theatre from 12 – 16 August 2025.
The story follows Blonde and Konstanze, two young women who slip away from their well-meaning but bumbling fiancés, Pedrillo and Belmonte, in search of excitement at the mysterious and hedonistic House of the Pasha.
Director Constantine Costi (Melbourne Cheremushki) brings a cheeky, modern edge to this classic with a fresh, English-language libretto that delves into themes of lust, obsession and unwavering loyalty.
Abduction reunites Costi with conductor Chad Kelly, following their collaboration on Victorian Opera’s production Il Mago di Oz. Kelly leads Orchestra Victoria in a performance grounded in Mozart’s original intentions.
Premiering in Vienna in 1782, Mozart’s playful sex comedy is a dazzling example of German Singspiel, blending spoken dialogue with virtuosic vocal fireworks.
To meet Mozart’s demanding score, Victorian Opera has assembled a cast of Australia’s most exciting young singers – many returning from celebrated careers in Europe.
Cleo Lee-McGowan and Kyle Stegall star as two of Mozart’s most passionate lovers, Konstanze and Belmonte. They are joined by recent Green Room Award winners Katherine Allen (Candide) and Douglas Kelly (La Rondine) in the roles of Blonde and Pedrillo.
Musical theatre star Lyndon Watts brings irresistible charm to the role of the enigmatic Pasha, in a pivotal non-singing role. Making his company debut, Luke Stoker stars as Osmin, the Pasha’s intense right-hand man.
Set and costume designers Nathan Burmeister and Matilda Woodroofe conjure a sensual world inspired by Rocky Horror, Moulin Rouge and The Great Gatsby, with lighting by the acclaimed Paul Jackson (Lorelei).
Almost 250 years after its debut in Vienna, Mozart’s masterpiece remains as thrilling as ever.
Abduction
Palais Theatre, Lower Esplanade, St Kilda
Season: 12 – 16 August 2025
Information and Bookings: www.victorianopera.com.au
Image: Lyndon Watts stars as The Pasha in Abduction (supplied)