La Bohème, Puccini’s iconic opera of youthful love and heartbreak, returns to the Sydney Opera House from 23 August to 20 September 2025 in a glittering, emotionally charged production by Gale Edwards. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of 1930s Berlin, this staging transforms Puccini’s Parisian masterpiece into a cabaret-infused world of fairy lights, smoky bars, and bohemian flair. At the centre is the passionate love story between poet Rodolfo and seamstress Mimì, a tale of joy, longing, jealousy, and devastating loss that continues to resonate across generations.

This enduring work, which inspired Moulin Rouge! and RENT, delivers some of opera’s most unforgettable moments, brought to life through Puccini’s emotionally rich score. Featuring soaring arias, heartbreaking duets, and powerful ensemble scenes, La Bohème captures the raw intensity of love in its most exhilarating and painful forms. Tenor Kang Wang leads the cast as Rodolfo, alongside Olivia Cranwell as Mimì, supported by a stellar ensemble of artists in a production beloved by Sydney audiences for its lavish visuals and raw emotional energy.

The opera is performed in Italian with English and Simplified Chinese surtitles, ensuring accessibility for a broad audience. The experience takes place in the Joan Sutherland Theatre, with a run time of approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including an intermission. All guests can enjoy pre-show drinks in the Opera House foyers, which open 90 minutes before curtain time. The venue is fully accessible, with pram access, lifts, and child safety protocols in place. Note: this production contains partial nudity and is recommended for mature audiences; children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Whether you’re a lifelong opera lover or a first-time visitor, La Bohème offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience the timeless power of music and theatre. With world-class vocal talent, a richly reimagined setting, and one of Puccini’s most beloved scores, this is opera at its most moving and visually spectacular. Secure your seats now for this limited-season run and witness the original bohemian love story brought vividly to life on Australia’s most iconic stage.