Season 2025: The Rare Operatic Gem Katya Kabanova Comes To Town

Once again, the Australian National Academy of Music (ANAM) joins forces with our incredible state opera company Victorian Opera to bring to life one of the most evocative and rarely performed operas of the 20th century: Leos Janacek’s Katya Kabanova. This ambitious project promises to deliver a stirring interpretation of a central-European masterpiece that has long been admired but remains a hidden gem for many in Australia.

Katya Kabanova, Janacek’s 1921 opera, is renowned for its intricate orchestration and profound emotional depth. Set in early 20th-century Russia, the opera explores themes of personal despair and societal constraints through the tragic story of Katya, a young woman trapped in a stifling marriage and oppressive environment. Janacek’s composition is a tour de force of expressive orchestral writing and evocative vocal lines, making it a perfect showcase for the talents of both ANAM’s musicians and Victorian Opera’s cast. 

In speaking with Victorian Opera’s artistic director, Stuart Maunder, he said “the joy of Katya Kabanova lies in its extraordinary orchestral score. It’s a piece that allows us to stretch the boundaries of our usual repertoire and offers a unique challenge for the orchestra. It’s certainly in my top five operas of all time.” 

Maunders excitement is palpable when he discusses Janacek’s work, which he describes as both “remarkable” and deeply human. “Janacek’s writing is grounded in folk tunes and the Czech sensibility, but it doesn’t have the grandeur or pomp of some other composers. It’s honest and deeply affecting,” Maunder noted. It is deeply moving music, with a distinctive voice that we rarely get to hear in Australia. 

The orchestra for this production will be provided by ANAM, providing the next generation of Australian orchestra musicians the opportunity to play a great opera. The ensemble’s involvement promises to bring a fresh and dynamic energy to Janacek’s intricate score.

Leading this exciting venture will be conductor Finnigan Downie Dear, whose burgeoning career has recently seen him make waves with engagements at prestigious venues like the Staatsoper Hamburg and the Rotterdam Philharmonic. Maunder shared his high regard for Downie Dear, highlighting his deep understanding of Janacek’s repertoire. “Finnegan is becoming a specialist in the Janacek repertoire,” Maunder said. “He’s meticulous, theatrical, and has a profound grasp of the opera’s global context. His involvement is a huge asset to this project.” 

Downie Dear’s growing reputation for his interpretative skill and dedication to his craft makes him an ideal choice to helm this production. His previous work with challenging pieces and his nuanced approach to orchestral music promise to bring out the full depth and richness of Katya Kabanova. 

In addition to ANAM and Downie Dear, Victorian Opera will provide an exceptional cast of singers, ensuring the vocal performance of true brilliance we’ve come to expect from Victorian Opera. Maunder’s belief in the transformative power of this opera is evident as he reflects on past experiences with Janacek’s works. “When you hear Katya Kabanova performed with the full orchestra, it’s a transformative experience. Janacek’s orchestration creates an intense, immersive soundscape that’s truly captivating.” 

This collaboration between Victorian Opera and ANAM is not just a chance to experience a rare operatic masterpiece; it’s an opportunity for both institutions to push the boundaries of their artistic capabilities and to present a performance that is both daring and deeply moving.

This will be one of the operatic highlights of 2025.

Words by Evan Lawson