Opera Queensland is an opera company based in Brisbane, Queensland. The company was founded with funding from the Queensland State Government in 1981 under the name Lyric Opera of Queensland after the Queensland Opera Company was closed inDecember 1980. Opera Queensland is the state’s major creator of opera and music theatre, and as a leader in the art form is responsible for providing performances of the highest musical and theatrical standards. With a vision of making opera central to the cultural life of Queensland, the Company delivers a diverse program of opera productions and related projects including three mainstage productions annually at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Based in Brisbane the company presents works throughout the state, and to national and international audiences. Their work in regional and remote locations is regarded internationally for the way it engages and builds communities through the creation of new work. Their involvement in schools is integral to their commitment to introduce young audiences to the wonder and power of telling stories through song.
History{{Cite web|url=https://oq.com.au/about/company-history/|title=Company History Opera Queensland – Season 2019|access-date=2019-01-16}}
For the first two years of operation the Lyric Opera of Queensland performed at Her Majesty's Theatre in Brisbane. The first production, Gilbert and Sullivan'sIolanthe, opened on 31 July 1982. In 1985, the Lyric Opera moved its productions to the newly opened Queensland Performing Arts Centre, where it continues to present its main stage productions each year. In 1996 the company changed its name to Opera Queensland and moved its offices and rehearsal studio into new, purpose-built premises in South Bank that it shares with Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.
Schools and Community{{Cite web|url=https://oq.com.au/about/annual-reports/|title=Annual Reports Opera Queensland – Season 2019|access-date=2019-01-16}}
Opera Queensland’s secondaryschool residencies have a long history of engaging students across the state, helping them to hone stagecraft, presentation, voice diction and projection, by working with skilled artists. Teachers frequently give feedback that the program builds self-confidence, resilience and a sense of pride and community within the school. Opera Queensland’s primary school tours are specifically designed for children and covers themes of storytelling, bravery, friendship and trust. Opera Queensland’s hugely popular workshops allow anyone regardless of age or experience to train in our studio under the tutelage of some of the company’s most well regarded artists, musicians and directors. They provide the community with a unique opportunity to explore the world of opera.
Funding{{Cite web|url=https://oq.com.au/about/annual-reports/|title=Annual Reports Opera Queensland – Season 2019|access-date=2019-01-16}}
