Opera Australia has announced the return of The Phantom of the Opera to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage in 2026, launching the musical’s global 40th anniversary celebrations with a spectacular open-air production.
Widely regarded as one of the most successful musicals of all time, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom has been seen by more than 160 million people in 205 cities across 58 territories and performed in 21 languages. This Sydney production will mark the first major event in a worldwide program of anniversary celebrations, and coincides with Opera Australia’s own milestone 70th year.
The acclaimed harbour staging, directed by Simon Phillips, first premiered in 2022 and was hailed for its dazzling design, strong cast and atmospheric waterfront setting. In 2026, the production will return to the same outdoor stage at Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point, transforming the harbour once again into the shadowy world of the Paris Opera House.
Opera Australia Acting CEO Simon Militano said the company is proud to partner again with The Really Useful Group to stage the production. “We’re honoured to be playing such a prominent role in the 40th anniversary global celebrations for this iconic musical, in the same year that OA is marking its own significant milestone with its 70th anniversary," he said.
"Our spectacular staging of The Phantom of the Opera, with its magical setting on Sydney Harbour, and the sweeping gothic romance and unforgettable music, all combines to create a fantastic showcase of OA’s artistic excellence, and an event not to be missed.”
The Really Useful Group CEO, James McKnight, added: “We’re delighted that Opera Australia will once again be staging this magnificent harbour production. It is the first of many global projects to be announced as we celebrate 40 years of Phantom."
"This unique staging brings to life the drama and splendour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music that has made Phantom such a beloved phenomenon, loved by millions of fans old and new around the world. There could be no more fitting backdrop than Sydney Harbour to begin our year of celebrations of one of the world’s most iconic musicals.”
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper welcomed the announcement, noting the cultural and tourism value of the event. “Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is a signature event on our calendar that showcases Sydney’s unique combination of culture and nature to the world," he said.
"I’m thrilled Andrew Lloyd Webber has chosen Sydney to commence next year’s 40th anniversary celebrations of The Phantom of the Opera. Staging an iconic production like Phantom in its milestone year, under the stars, on the water with the spectacular city skyline as the backdrop illustrates why Sydney is renowned as a global hub for cultural experiences.”
Presented by Opera Australia in association with The Really Useful Group, the 2026 production is supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, as well as the International Foundation for Arts and Culture, OA Patron in Chief Dr Haruhisa Handa, and Principal Partner HSBC.
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour – The Phantom of the Opera opens Friday 27 March 2026. Early access to tickets begins Tuesday 5 August for those booking an Opera Australia 2026 Season Subscription of two or more productions. Priority pre-sale access to single tickets begins Tuesday 26 August, with general public sales from Tuesday 2 September.
For more information or to join the waitlist, visit opera.org.au/harbour.