What happens when a stubborn widow meets an even more stubborn debt collector? Brisbane’s West End will soon find out with the premiere of The Boor.
Springboard Opera Brings Rare Modern Comedy to West End Stage
A modern opera never before performed in Australia is making its debut in Brisbane’s West End. The Boor, a witty one-act production by Springboard Opera, will be staged at Fatespace this July, offering audiences a fresh and engaging take on classic storytelling through opera.
Showing on Friday, 4 July at 7pm (Premiere) and Saturday, 5 July at 3pm (Matinee), The Boor is based on Chekhov’s short play The Bear, with music by American composer Dominick Argento.
A Fresh Take on Chekhov in Opera Form
Showing on 4 and 5 July, The Boor is based on Chekhov’s short play The Bear, with music by American composer Dominick Argento. The plot follows a grieving widow whose quiet life is disrupted when a demanding stranger arrives to collect an unpaid debt. Their intense exchange quickly turns into an unexpected emotional connection, blending humour with heartfelt moments.
This fast-paced, three-character opera keeps the action tight and the story sharp, making it accessible to both opera newcomers and seasoned fans.
Spotlight on Local Talent
The production features rising performers from South East Queensland. Directed by Emma Nightingale and conducted by Guillaume Lemay-Yates, the show is supported musically by pianist John Woods. With its cast drawn entirely from the Brisbane area, the show highlights the region’s emerging talent.
Springboard Opera continues its focus on supporting early-career artists, giving them the chance to perform professional, fully staged productions in front of a local audience.
West End as a Creative Hub
The venue, Fatespace, sits in the heart of West End and is known for hosting independent and experimental performances. The space complements the intimate style of the opera and reinforces the community-driven spirit behind the production.
The Boor reflects a growing movement in Brisbane’s arts scene, making opera more accessible, more local, and more engaging for all.
Published 8-April-2025