Opera success

The Victorian Opera’s production of The Riders, based on Tim Winton’s award-winning novel of the same name, has attracted excellent reviews and a sold-out season at the Malthouse. Wesley College is proud and delighted that, of the six roles in the opera, two have a strong Wesley connection. Each of the six roles is demanding, with all of the performers on stage for much of the 1 hour 45 minute production.

Jerzy Kozlowski, who plays the role of Arthur, is a music teacher at the St Kilda Road campus. Jerzy is a seasoned artist, having performed more than 60 operas and numerous choral performances over the years. Likewise, Isabela Calderon, a Year 12 student at St Kilda Road who plays the role of Billie, has studied singing since the age of 7 and has also performed in many school productions.

Isabela has “thoroughly enjoyed this incredible opportunity to work with professionals in such an inspiring work” and Jerzy commented that “three months ago I performed in the first opera ever published, in 1600, and now have the privilege of being involved in the newest work to be staged – I can say that the experience of storytelling through music and drama is just as powerful now, as it was then.”

The College congratulates both Isabela and Jerzy on their wonderful musical achievements and wishes them both every success in their future musical endeavours.

"(The Riders) is an opera of rare dramatic power, utmost musicality and first-rate performances” 
– The Age

“Together, Victorian Opera and Malthouse Theatre have created a bewitching jewel of contemporary music theatre”
– The Australian