ACOCO Festival is an exciting international celebration of innovation and artistry - ten days of contemporary opera and song, scheduled for February 21 to March 2, 2025. This ten-day festival will take place in two locations: PAC Theatre in North Melbourne and the scenic Pt. Leo Estate on the Mornington Peninsula.
The festival features a diverse lineup, including three Australian premieres: p r i s m, a poignant Pulitzer prize-winning opera by Ellen Reid and Roxie Perkins; Sanatorium Express, a "side-splittingly funny" comic opera by Finnish composer Iiro Rantala with words by Minna Lindgren; Soldier Songs, which draws on the experiences of American war veterans. Additionally, audiences can enjoy Australian Fairy Songs, a whimsical production by Elena Kats-Chernin.
Headling the festival program at Pt. Leo Estate on the Mornington Peninsula is renowned soprano Danielle De Niese, who will perform exclusively at a gala dinner and the closing showcase condert (Mar 1 - 2). The event aims to make contemporary opera accessible and engaging, fostering a vibrant arts connection to diverse audiences in Australia. ACOCO's commitment to innovation and artistry positions this festival as a significant cultural event in the Southern Hemisphere, promising unforgettable performances and experiences for all attendees.
