SECRET OPERA SEPTEMBER
Reveal: Secret Opera 11 - 13 September
WHAT YOU HEARD: The Telephone
When Menotti wrote The Telephone in 1946 he was responding to the new trend of households installing personal telephones and the effect this was having on interpersonal relationships. Primarily the shift from in person communication to that over the telephone.
Nothing could be still more relevant a topic to the here and now. Of course the solution, comically arrived at, is for everyone to get a telephone and make that the new personal, intimate form.
This staging also plays with the intrusion of the telephone into our daily lives, the calls, beeps and buzzing that now accompanies every meeting, catch up or concert. The accidental sharing of personal information with large groups of people just because you’re having what would be a private conversation in public. Albeit with the mystery of the audience only hearing one side.
WHERE YOU WERE: The Wesfarmers Arts Collection
Secret Opera unfolded in the Wesfarmers Arts Collection on Level 14, Brookfield Place Tower 2.
This private gallery space is home to one of Australia’s most significant corporate art collections, with over 300 works showcasing a powerful commitment to contemporary Australian and New Zealand arts. With a strong focus on Indigenous artists, the collection spans painting, photography, sculpture, and workls on paper – supporting and celebrating the work of living artists across diverse spaces. Rarely accessible to the public, this unique setting provided an intimate and culturally rich backdrop for the event.
WHERE YOU MET: Koolbardi wer Wardong (Magpie and Crow) Mural
This mural represents the collaboration between West Australian Opera and Brookfield Place and celebrates the Noongar opera Koolbardi wer Wardong (2021).
Koolbardi wer Wardong, composed by Gina Williams & Guy Ghouse, was commissioned by Wesfarmers Arts and premiered at His Majesty's Theatre in 2021.
WHO YOU SAW
Director and Piano Chris van Tuinen
Lucy Jessica Blunt
Ben Brett Peart
Jessica and Brett are part of the 2024-2025 Wesfarmers Arts Young Artists Program.
To view all event photography, access the photo gallery here.
Where is the venue?
This is an indoor event. Please note: a walk of up to 200 metres is required. If you anticipate any difficulty, contact us in advance to make suitable arrangements.
This is an indoor event. Please note: a walk of up to 200 metres is required. If you anticipate any difficulty, contact us in advance to make suitable arrangements.
How long is the event?
This is a 1-hour event, which includes a 30-minute live performance.
What are my transport options?
Paid parking is available nearby at:
Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre Parking, Wilson Parking, Central Park, Westralia Square Parking.
For public transport options, click here to plan your journey with Transperth.
The venue is located near the Elizabeth Quay Busport, train station and the jetty. It’s a short walk from St Georges' Terrace bus routes and a 5-minute walk from the underground station.
Is the venue accessible?
The venue is fully accessible, and seating will be available. For access needs or questions, please email [email protected]
What should I wear?
A little bit special — think dressy but comfortable, just enough to feel like you’re part of something worth celebrating...
Is this a seated or standing event?
Seating will be available for the duration of the event.
Is there any hospitality?
A drink on arrival is included in the ticket price.
Event and ticketing details
Accessibility
Dates & Times
| DURATION | This is a 1 hour event including a 30-minute performance. |
| Performance 1 | Thursday 11 September - 6 - 7pm |
| Performance 2 | Thursday 11 September - 8 - 9pm |
| Performance 3 | Friday 12 September - 6 - 7pm |
| Performance 4 | Friday 12 September - 8 - 9pm |
| Performance 5 | Saturday 13 September - 8 - 9pm |