The world’s first musical – and still one of the best – The Beggar’s Opera is the raucous tale of ladies’ man Macheath and sweet Polly Peachum juggling love and deceit in the dirty underbelly of 18th Century London.

In a theatrical coup the opera is reimagined: writer Stephen Jeffreys and celebrated British director Max
Stafford-Clark shift the setting to a creaking convict ship bound for Australia. To pass the time, a group of convicts put on an opera set in the world they’ve left far behind, and will probably never see again.

The Convict’s Opera is a unique co-production between Sydney Theatre Company and Out of Joint, Max Stafford-Clark’s legendary touring theatre company. Featuring a cast of talented actor-musicians drawn from Britain and Australia, The Convict’s Opera brings together the classic folk songs of the original with some modern musical surprises – and plenty of infamy, intrigue, fun and romance.

Following its Sydney Theatre season, The Convict’s Opera will tour extensively throughout the UK.

Now Playing!

Sydney Theatre, Walsh Bay

Running Time: 2 hours 45 minutes, including 20 minute interval