Pagliacci to delight Maleny audiences in June opera production
The Maleny Singers are set to return to the stage this June with their eagerly anticipated 2025 production: Pagliacci by Ruggero Leoncavallo.
Following the success of their 2023 performance of Cavalleria Rusticana, which was presented in collaboration with the Inspiration Project Choir under the baton of Kim Kirkman, the same creative team will reunite to bring the companion black comedy opera Pagliacci to life.
Traditionally paired with Cavalleria Rusticana, Pagliacci is a vibrant, short opera in two acts, renowned for its dramatic storytelling, humour, and powerful music. Audiences can look forward to iconic arias such as Vesti la Giubba (“On with the Motley”) and the exhilarating Bell Chorus.
With performances scheduled for 3pm on the weekends of June 14–15 and June 21–22 at the Maleny Community Centre, rehearsals are already in full swing.
The cast features a mix of familiar and new faces, with Vanessa West returning to the stage after her acclaimed performance as Santuzza in 2023.
She is joined by newcomer Shelden Mathieson, alongside local favourites Colin Dunn, Ian Rix, and Rod Johnson, who take on challenging principal roles with both passion and finesse.
The idea to stage Pagliacci stemmed from a conversation between director Margaret Taylor and conductor Kim Kirkman following their previous collaboration.
“What can we do next together combining our two choirs?” Kim Kirkman had asked. The answer was obvious—Pagliacci, the natural companion to Cavalleria.
Their shared vision has now come to fruition, promising audiences an unforgettable operatic experience.
“It has so much to offer—fun, laughter, action, drama, and a love story with a dramatic ending,” Kim Kirkman said.
“There’s also some lovely singing for the chorus and moments of real musical beauty.”
Margaret Taylor once again takes the helm as director, while Kim Kirkman returns to conduct the orchestra, with these two creative powerhouses guiding what promises to be a spirited and emotionally rich production.
Tickets are $50 ($45 concession) and available now via Trybooking.com/DAATM.
Patrons are encouraged to book early and mark their calendars for this highlight on Maleny’s cultural calendar.