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Subverse Theatre proudly presents

The Sacrifice of Farinelli
Written and Directed by Stuart Bruce

Created with the support of the Maribyrnong City Council through their Artist in Residence program, this winter Subverse Theatre proudly present the premiere season of The Sacrifice of Farinelli.

An original Australian work, this compelling production is inspired by real figures from the 1700s, Riccardo Broschi, a composer, and his brother Carlo Broschi – who went on to become the legendary Farinelli, an Italian-Neapolitan castrato and the world’s first true superstar. Riccardo must reconcile with Teresa, Carlo’s lost love, in order to discover his true self and learn the price of worshipping perfection in music.

With a unique sound design featuring works from Vivaldi, Bach, and Handel, alongside modern music elements, The Sacrifice of Farinelli marries physical theatre, immersive staging, effects technology, live violin, and singing. Audiences will be transported to a decadent baroque world that pits nature against narcissism, and authenticity against ego.

Running this August at the Bluestone Church Arts Space in Footscray, don’t miss the chance to experience the remarkable tale of one of the greatest singers in the history of opera. Playing for three weeks only, it promises to be a true highlight on the Melbourne arts calendar.

Helmed by Stuart Bruce, Subverse Theatre is a Melbourne-based independent theatre company dedicated to staging original, thought-provoking works that bridge historical fiction with modern socio-political realities. Known for their bold, genre-blending productions, Subverse Theatre actively champions local artists to experiment, and cultivate deep cultural exchange.

This project is proudly supported by Maribyrnong City Council’s Artist Residency Program

Written and Directed by Stuart Bruce
Assistant Directing by Carlotta Migliolo and Lily Infantino
Choreography by Amelia Pawsey and Stephanie Clare-Cover
Performed by Jesse Vasiliadis, Elsa Caruso, Luca Mckenzie, Evangelos Arabatzis, Mathew Da Via, Francesca Michelis, Fiona Crombie, Marlon Dance-Hooi, Carla Maggio De Leo, and Tristan Bell
Technical Direction by Troy Rainbow
Sound Design by Stuart Bruce
Set and Prop Design by Stuart Bruce, Evelyn Khong, and Tim Augier
Lighting by Ronin Green
Costume Design by Ella Barrett and Asha Robinson
Intimacy Coordination by Eliza Grundy
Props by Evelyn Khong and Stuart Bruce
Head of Staging: Tim Augier
Produced by Subverse Theatre and Maribyrnong City Council
Photography by Lauren Marr and Barbara Vood
Videography by Mau Tissera
Publicity by Sassy Red PR

13 – 29 August 2026
Wed – Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm
Preview: Thurs 13 August 7:30pm
Opening Night: Fri 14 August 7:30pm
Tickets: $42 Full, $35 Concession, and $35 Preview
Bookings: online only via www.subversetheatre.net/#current
Booking enquiries: admin@subversetheatre.net
Venue: Bluestone Church Arts Space – 8A Hyde St, Footscray VIC

Duration: 2 hours with 20 min interval
Age Suitability: 15+
Warnings: Strobe light, fog-/haze effects, loud music, sexual references, adult themes
Accessibility: Wheelchair access via the rear entrance, wheelchair accessible toilet. Please contact venue with further access enquiries

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