The opening of the New Zealand Opera's season of Don Giovanni in Christchurch on Wednesday night marks two milestones.
The work by Mozart is the first full operatic production in the city for six years, and the first to be produced by the new amalgamation of the national company and Southern Opera.
Jonathon Lemalu-Leporello and Mark Stone in Don Giovanni. Photo: NZ OPERA
New Zealand Opera general director Aiden Lang said Christchurch has lacked a suitable venue since the Town Hall and the Isaac Theatre Royal were damaged in the earthquakes, so the company is looking forward to playing to the public again.
He hopes the modern interpretation will draw in new audiences.
Mr Lang said the production is dedicated to the late Christopher Doig, who initiated the amalgamation.
