EU-Australia Ties Cemented in a Celebratory Maria Callas Tour

Debuting on the 100th anniversary of Maria Callas's birth, before an audience that included Australia’s Governor General, the Honorable David Hurley, and the Vice President of the European Commission, Mr Margaritas Schinas, the concert was enjoyed by thousands of Australians in sold out theatres across the country’s most prestigious venues, including the iconic Sydney Opera House, Arts Centre Melbourne, Adelaide Festival Centre, and the Perth Concert Hall.

Governor General David Hurley thanked the EU for bringing the show to Australia saying that: ‘The beauty that we heard tonight and the technology that we saw says so much about who we are, what we value and what we stand for.’

‘We are so privileged to live in this country; to have the heritages from every (European) country that is represented here,’ he said. ‘Thank-you for what you have given us. Let’s not lose it, let’s not take it lightly. Let’s believe in what it still has to offer to the world.’

Vice President Margaritas Schinas said following the performance in Sydney Opera House that the show was a ‘true celebration of art and innovation.’

‘Tonight’s events reflect the importance the EU attaches to cultural diplomacy, building bridges through cultural collaboration,’ he said. ‘What brings us together, music, art, beauty, is much stronger than any fleeting differences we may have.’

Reviewing the completed tour, EU Ambassador to Australia Gabriele Visentin said: ‘This was a celebration of the deep and enduring cultural ties between the European Union and Australia. Culture and respect for diversity are values that Australia and the EU cherish, and coming together in the name of culture affirms our shared principles and values, and proves that unity and peace in diversity can have a place in the world.’

Maria Callas: A Concert in Hologram, presented the iconic soprano's timeless artistry, genius and effervescent spirit on stage for an unforgettable and immersive audio-visual experience. Works from Bellini, Bizet, Verdi, and Gounod were interpreted by leading local musicians, including the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, directed by New York maestro conductor and pianist, Daniel Schlosberg.

The concerts were supported by state governments in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia. The significant collaboration, along with the significant contributions from Australian state governments, reaffirms the bond between the EU and Australia and emphasizes the importance of EU-Australia relations, which are based on both interests and values.

Tour Dates: 13 December Perth Concert Hall l 9 December Adelaide Festival Centre – Dunstan Playhouse l 7 December Melbourne Art Centre – Hamer Hall l 2-3 December Sydney Opera House – The Playhouse

Media Contact: Victoria Kelly-Clark | Victoria.KELLY-CLARK@eeas.europa.eu | 0429 024 887