The Spare Room – Arts Centre Melbourne, Southbank

About this event

The Spare Room is a world premiere new Australian opera adapted from Helen Garner's acclaimed novel. Composer Dr Jane Hammond and librettist Thereza Borg transform Garner's prose into an opera staged at the Playhouse, Arts Centre Melbourne, as part of Victorian Opera’s Season 2026. Director Sarah Goodes makes her operatic debut, with designs by Harriet Oxley (set/costume) and lighting by Paul Jackson. Phoebe Briggs conducts, and the Victorian Opera Chamber Orchestra performs. Co-produced with Monstrous Theatre, the production features sopranos Natalie Jones (Helen) and Antoinette Halloran (Nicola). Exploring friendship under the strain of terminal illness, the work blends dark humour with emotional intensity. Accessibility at Arts Centre Melbourne includes assistive hearing, Companion Card, and wheelchair access.

Cast & creative

• N

  Helen

  Natalie Jones
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  Nicola

  Antoinette Halloran
• P

  Conductor

  Phoebe Briggs
• S

  Stage director

  Sarah Goodes
• H

  Set designer

  Harriet Oxley
• H

  Costume designer

  Harriet Oxley
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  Lighting designer

  Paul Jackson