By Sonia Isaacs
SHAKESPEARE’S greatest stories will be given a fresh and emotionally charged twist when Brisbane-based opera company Voxalis brings its acclaimed Shakespeare Reimagined program to the hinterland.
Artistic Director Camilo Lopez says the performances weave together iconic Shakespearean narratives with the power of live opera, creating an intimate and contemporary experience for Sunshine Coast audiences.
“We’re taking these universal stories; Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Hamlet and more and adding another layer of drama through music,” Mr Lopez said.
“Opera is an expert at heightening emotion. Even if the words are in Italian or French, the music speaks directly to people.”
The program features three singers and a pianist performing excerpts from a range of operas inspired by Shakespeare.
Rather than a traditional recital, the ensemble has crafted a loose storyline that links the pieces, guiding audiences on a cohesive emotional journey.
“It’s not just standing and singing,” Mr Lopez said. “There’s movement, drama and a sense of narrative that people can follow, even if they’re not familiar with opera.”
Mr Lopez, who first connected with Shakespeare through opera while studying classical singing at university, believes the format makes the material more accessible for modern audiences.
“Shakespeare can sometimes feel distant or hard to understand today, but the themes are still so relevant; love, corruption, power, heartbreak,” he said. “Music helps bridge that gap. People can feel the story, even if they don’t catch every word.”
Voxalis has built a strong reputation for supporting emerging talent, pairing recent graduates from the Queensland Conservatorium and the University of Queensland with established professional artists.
The result is a dynamic mix of experience and fresh energy on stage, attracting both seasoned opera-goers and new audiences.
“When we started, we were one of the only companies in Brisbane giving young singers real professional opportunities alongside experienced artists,” Mr Lopez said.
“It’s not just educational – it’s about putting their craft in front of an audience.”
Accessibility remains central to the company’s mission, from thoughtful programming to keeping ticket prices approachable.
“We want audiences in Maleny and Eudlo to feel this music belongs to them,” Lopez said.
“It’s intimate, emotionally honest, and a rare chance to hear extraordinary Shakespeare-inspired opera live in Queensland. It’s Shakespeare for today – still timeless, but absolutely relevant.”
Performances: Maleny Community Centre, Friday February 20, 7pm; Eudlo Hall, Sunday March 1, 4pm.
Tickets: www.redchair.com.au
