Pioneering technology taking opera to all corners of Queensland

Opera Queensland is celebrating being the first Arts company in Australia to bring pitch-perfect opera to classrooms all over our state via unrivalled, interactive technology.

CEO & Artistic Director, Patrick Nolan today announced the exclusive partnership with Cisco and Data^#3, in Longreach where the program to be known as Singing Queensland is being launched.

“Opera Queensland’s mission is to bring communities together through stories and song,” he said.

“Queensland is our stage and this collaboration between three companies devoted to excellence enables us to deliver on our commitment to take music and storytelling to the most remote communities across all of Queensland.

“This is a very exciting opportunity combining a traditional art form with the very best of modern innovation. Through Data^#3 and Cisco’s engineering expertise and continued technical support, we will be able to deliver more inclusive and diverse opera experiences,” said Mr Nolan.

Cisco Queensland Regional Manager Terry Weber said the partnership with Data^#3 will link the most remote Queensland communities to the arts.

“I’ve experienced first-hand the magic of seeing a world-class opera performance in a rural setting, and we’re excited to be a part of bringing the joy of music and the arts to stages, schools and screens – no matter the location.”

Ray Merlano, General Manager – Queensland, Data^#3 said, “We’re proud to collaborate with our long-standing partner, Cisco, to support the communities we operate in and make a meaningful difference. It has been an absolute pleasure working with Opera Queensland, and we look forward to continuing our work in harnessing the power of people and technology for a better future.”

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said Opera Queensland is leading the way in demonstrating how the harnessing of digital tools can enhance community engagement with high quality arts and deliver positive social, cultural and education outcomes.

“This new partnership, piloted here in Longreach, will provide Queensland’s regional communities with high-quality connectivity and arts experiences to enhance young Queenslanders’ access to the work of our state opera company,” Minister Enoch said.

“The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring that communities and schools across Queensland can access exceptional arts and cultural experiences no matter where they live and learn.

“The global stage of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will present a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the state’s world class arts and cultural talent and experiences and innovative digital arts engagement activities like those being launched today.”

Longreach Regional Council Mayor Tony Rayner said The Festival of Outback Opera had been a huge success with Longreach locals and tourists.

“Our outback town may be small in size but we are big in spirit,” said Mayor Rayner.

“Our town’s passion for Opera has been ignited and we are thrilled to be the beneficiaries of this magnificent program.”