Welcome to Australian Contemporary Opera Co!
Australian Contemporary Opera Company grew from a young artist repertory company, founded by Australian soprano/stage director/producer Linda Thompson in 2008.
In 2015, they presented their first regional weekend opera festival in Nagambie, moving onto ten days in the Yarra Valley in 2017, and (world-first!) international online festival in 2020. Now, after a string of successes and a period of strategically defining their place and identity, ACOCO is set to relaunch their international festival of contemporary opera and song with the spectacular coastal backdrop of the Mornington Peninsula, on traditional lands of the Bunurong people of the Kulin Nation.
Pictured below: Soprano Stacey Alleaume in Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. Stacey was one of the inaugural company members in 2009-2010. Stacey has since appeared as a Guest Artist with ACOCO in 2013 and 2018, as well as Opera Australia and leading international houses. Image ©OperaAustralia 2021
"The Enchanting World of the Australian Contemporary Opera Company" - chat gpt
Australia is a land of diverse landscapes, cultures, and artistic endeavours. While many associate it with kangaroos and stunning beaches, there's another side to the Land Down Under that's equally captivating - the world of opera. In this post, we'll take you on a journey into the heart of Australia's vibrant opera scene, with a spotlight on the Australian Contemporary Opera Company (ACOCo). Get ready to be awestruck by the power of operatic story-telling and the incredible talents that grace the stages of this dynamic company!
Unveiling ACOCO:
The Australian Contemporary Opera Company, affectionately known as ACOCO, is not your typical opera company. Nestled in the heart of the Australian cultural landscape, ACOCO stands out as a beacon of surprise, innovation and artistic excellence. Founded with the aim of redefining the boundaries of traditional opera for artists and audiences, this company has carved its own unique path in the global contemporary opera landscape.
Versatile Voices:
One of the most astounding aspects of ACOCO is the sheer versatility of its performers. This is not your grandmother's opera – ACOCO's talented artists effortlessly blend classical operatic traditions with contemporary styles, creating a mesmerising fusion that is as refreshing as it is captivating.
Breaking Barriers:
ACOCO is not content with resting on the laurels of tradition - or its track record of success. Instead, ACOCO seeks to break down the barriers that have long separated opera from the masses. With an inclusive approach, they've taken their performances to unexpected venues – from open-air productions in lush gardens to intimate gatherings in hidden city galleries. As well as dozens of Australian premieres, ACOCO has crafted all sorts of new experiences, including a Green Room award-winning 10 day online festival, a stunning video/live performance gallery installation, immersive marathon and fully-staged outdoor operas.
These performances aren't just about music and drama, or beauty and spectacle; they're about creating a connection that allows audiences to engage meaningfully with the art form - and each other - in a new way. ACOCO is the place for your welcoming, accessible journey into the world of contemporary opera.
Behind the Scenes:
To truly understand the magic of ACOCO, delve into the world behind the curtains. The dedication and passion of everyone involved – from the visionary directors to the talented costume designers to generous partners and indefatigable crew – is truly awe-inspiring. It's a collective effort that transforms each production into a masterpiece.
Engagement:
ACOCO doesn't just 'perform for' audiences; it actively sets out and programs to engage. They're nurturing the next generation of opera enthusiasts AND artists. This commitment to fostering a love for opera in the hearts of diverse Australians is essential for the art form's continued vibrancy, and future viable careers for Australian artists. Performance only happens with an audience full of individual thoughts and reactions.
Conclusion:
In a world where tradition often meets resistance from modernity, Australian Contemporary Opera Company stands as a shining example of how determination, innovation and inclusivity can breathe new life into an age-old art. ACOCO's journey into the hearts and minds of audiences across Australia is not just about opera; it's a celebration of the human spirit, Australian creativity in a global context, and the enduring power of story-telling.