About
Bold, Beautiful, Baroque
Pinchgut Opera is Australia’s home for extraordinary Baroque opera and music – bold, beautiful performances that make centuries-old masterpieces feel vibrant, fresh, and relevant today.
This music lives and breathes in our hands, performed with authenticity and passion, on the specialist instruments it was written for, and guided by Australia’s leading experts. We promise a richer, more vivid experience that feels immediate and thrilling, never locked in the past.
Since 2002, we’ve created over 37 unique productions, many Australian premieres, and in 2018 became the first Australian company to win a prestigious International Opera Award in London.
At the heart of every performance is our acclaimed Orchestra of the Antipodes, led by ARIA Award-winning Artistic Director Erin Helyard, alongside exceptional singers, visionary creatives, and an expert production team. Together, they craft performances that are intimate, daring, and unforgettable.
With a unique, independent model, powered by 95% self-generated revenue and the passion and commitment of our incredible audiences and donors, Pinchgut continues to redefine what opera can be, creating transformative experiences for both seasoned fans and those discovering this music for the very first time.
We are forever grateful to our audience who buy tickets and place their trust in us to lead them on a journey of musical discovery. We especially thank our donors, whose support allows us to continue to present music that inspires.
Our Team
Orchestra of the Antipodes
Orchestra of the Antipodes is Pinchgut Opera’s flagship orchestra and has played in every production since Orfeo in 2004. This year it celebrates its 20th year and, with Giustino, 27th Pinchgut production.
Founded by Antony Walker and Alison Johnston, the Orchestra of the Antipodes is renowned for its virtuosity, precision, sensitivity and attention to lyrical beauty. Erin Helyard conducts the Orchestra of the Antipodes from the keyboard and its members perform on period instruments. The orchestra is passionate in its attention to historically informed performance practice.
