The Phantom of the Opera Returns to Sydney Harbour to Launch Global 40-year Celebration

Today, the return season of one of the world’s most successful musicals, The Phantom of the Opera, was announced to the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage in 2026, kicking off the celebrations to mark 40 years of the iconic show.

The Sydney Harbour spectacular, directed by Australian musical theatre royalty Simon Phillips, took audiences by storm when it premiered in 2022 and now Opera Australia has the honour of staging the first major event in a world-wide programme of celebrations in 2026.

Opera Australia Acting CEO Simon Militano said the company is thrilled to be teaming up again with The Really Useful Group for such an historic celebration:

“We’re honoured to be playing such a prominent role in the 40^th anniversary global celebrations for this iconic musical, in the same year that OA is marking its own significant milestone with its 70^th anniversary."

“Our spectacular staging of The Phantom of the Opera, with its magical setting on Sydney Harbour, and the sweeping gothic romance and unforgettable music, all combines to create a fantastic showcase of OA’s artistic excellence, and an event not to be missed” said Militano.

The Really Useful Group CEO, James McKnight, said:

“We’re delighted that Opera Australia will once again be staging this magnificent harbour production. It is the first of many global projects to be announced as we celebrate 40 years of Phantom.  

“This unique staging brings to life the drama and splendour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music that has made Phantom such a beloved phenomenon, loved by millions of fans old and new around the world. There could be no more fitting backdrop than Sydney Harbour to begin our year of celebrations of one of the world's most iconic musicals.”

The Phantom of the Opera on Sydney Harbour opens Friday 27 March 2026. Early access to tickets will be available from Tuesday 5 August.