We are very excited to present a new production of Puccini's Suor Angelica. At just over an hour long, and containing one of the most beautiful arias for soprano voice, Senza mamma, this is a great first opera for first-timers.

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Suor Angelica is the second opera in Puccini’s Il trittico (The Triptych); a set of three one-act operas comprising of Il tabarro, Suor Angelica and Gianni Schicchi. While Gianni Schicchi is more commonly known, it is Suor Angelica that is said to have been the composer’s favourite.  

The opera offers a glimpse into the everyday life of a convent. It follows the story of Sister Angelica, forced into the convent seven years ago after bringing shame to her family. Finally she receives a visitor, Sister Angelica’s Aunt, the princess, who comes with surprising and tragic news.

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Written for an ensemble cast of women, Suor Angelica is a beautiful telling of the friendship between the Sisters of the Convent, and of Sister Angelica’s emotional journey through tragic loss to redemption. With its soaring melodies, Suor Angelica demonstrates how music can stir our deepest emotions. Director and Mopoke founder, Nicholas Cannon, is excited to use Clayton Wesley Uniting Church as the setting for this production; “Suor Angelica is a beautiful and powerful opera and fits perfectly in the Church setting at the Clayton Wesley Uniting Church."

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Suor Angelica is particularly special to Music Director Penelope Cashman, being the first opera she worked on as a student repetiteur while undertaking her Masters in Vienna; “I’m really looking forward to exploring this music again with wonderful, established local singers, as well as giving our up-and-coming younger singers the opportunity to share and develop their talents through bringing this beautiful work to the stage.”

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Cashman is not the only artist for whom this opera holds significance; soprano Fiona McArdle made her operatic debut in Co-Opera’s production 10 years ago (also directed by Nicholas Cannon). After living and performing overseas, she is returning to the Adelaide stage, this time in the title role. Meran Bow and Barbara Heidrich, long-time artists of State Opera of South Australia, offer commanding performances in their roles of La Zia Principessa and Mother Abbess. Supported by a cast of Adelaide’s rising talent, this is sure to be a stunning performance that is not to be missed.

Support Available

Suor Angelica explores themes of suicidal ideation and the loss of a child. If you have been affected by the themes of suicidal ideation or the loss of a child, there is support available.

Red Nose Grief and Loss supports individuals and families who have experienced the sudden and unexpected death of an infant or young child. You contact Red Nose Grief and Loss via their 24/7 support line on 1300 308 307.

Lifeline provides personal suicide and crisis support to all Australians. You can call Lifeline to discuss all types of personal difficulties, including thoughts of suicide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on 13 11 14.

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