The Flying Dutchman, a cursed sea captain, sails his phantom ship across the world's oceans. Only true love can save him and every seven years he goes ashore in search of a wife.

Off the Norwegian coast, a community of women are yearning for the return of their men. But Senta is obsessed with a different passion - she fantasises about the myth of the Flying Dutchman, and longs to save his tormented soul. When her father, Daland, is caught out in a storm at sea, he catches sight of the blood-red sails of the Dutchman’s ship and invites the stranger home, never dreaming of the captain’s true identity.

The Flying Dutchman was only Wagner's second opera to be successfully staged, but its brooding tension, boundless emotion and sweet melodies ensure it is still a firm favourite today.

Cast: Jason Howard as The Dutchman, Orla Boylan as Senta, Paul Whelan as Daland, Peter Auty as Erik, Shaun Dixon as The Steersman and Wendy Doyle as Mary

Creative Team: Conductor - Wyn Davies, Director - Matthew Lutton, Production Designer - Zoe Atkinson, Lighting Designer - Jon Buswell

Accompanied by the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra. Featuring the Chapman Tripp Opera Chorus. Sung in German with English surtitles. A co-production with Opera Queensland.

Free Pre-show Talks
10 and 12 October, 7.30pm and 8 October, 5.30pm
Air New Zealand Foyer, Level 1, Aotea Centre

Opera Exposed and Friends Night
8 October, from 5.30pm