“…one of the most magical experiences you’ll ever have.”
Australian Traveller
“Remote outback towns, singalongs over a beer, friendly folk and sublime arias sung by top artists under the stars. There’s nothing else like it.”
Australian Financial Review
“Watching opera among the dinosaurs could be the most Australian thing I’ve ever done.”
Sydney Morning Herald
Unlike any music event you have experienced, the Festival of Outback Opera features a series of concerts in iconic outback locations. This year’s headline artist, multi-award-winning soprano Sumi Jo, will add Winton and Longreach to the impressive list of international stages on which she has performed.
Frock up for the Gala Ball or make new friends in the pub over a casual singalong. Gather under the night skies for Dark Sky Serenade or enjoy an afternoon of beautiful singing and fine dining at the Long Lunch. Our hit show, Are You Lonesome Tonight, touring nationally in 2025, brings a bit of country to the Outback, stopping in Winton and Longreach during the festival.
The program allows you to join for a long weekend or immerse yourself in a full week of activities. This is singing and scenery on a grand scale. And while the space is vast, the feeling is intimate, leaving you with a smile on your face and a swag of new friendships.
Start making your plans today. As with previous years, the festival will sell out quickly.
CREATIVE TEAM
Conductor Vanessa Scammell
Director Patrick Nolan
Lighting Bernie Tan-Hayes
Queensland Symphony Orchestra
UQ Pulse Chamber Orchestra and Singers
Please note: Festival of Outback Opera is not eligible for your 2025 subscription package or discount.
Schedule/Program
Tour Packages
Courtesy of Sheehan Events and Outback Aussie Tours, we have created three tailored packages to simplify your planning and enhance your Outback adventure.
Secure your spot now for an exclusive single-day return charter flight, immersing yourself in Opera Queensland’s highlight event, Dark Sky Serenade, or take the train and stay for 7 or 9 days, allowing you to experience everything the festival has to offer.
ONE-DAY WINTON RETURN
Opera Queensland has partnered with Sheehan Events to offer day-return Charter Flights for Dark Sky Serenade (Winton, Thursday 17 May 2025).
From champagne breakfast and your private charter flight through to Opera Queensland’s scintillating performance at the extraordinary Australian Age of Dinosaurs, this is a day to remember!
Experience all the majesty and wonder of our Dark Sky Serenade in the Outback.
RAIL PACKAGES
Teaming up with Opera Queensland and Queensland Rail, Outback Aussie Tours is offering a new eight-day tour of Festival of Outback Opera.
Travel in luxury alongside friends and other like-minded travellers as you experience glorious scenery and magnificent music on your way to the festival!
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