OPERA is back in the region this month with the performance of Mozart’s Abduction from the Seraglio.
Lyster Opera has won fans across the Loddon with shows in Tarnagulla and Inglewood.
The company’s March production will be in Charlton.
Bass-baritone and historian Jamie Moffat formed the company honour of 19th century Irish entrepreneur  and Australian opera pioneer William Saurin Lyster .
Moffat said he selected Abduction from the Seraglio because, based on his experience, regional audiences are particularly open to exploring lesser-known operas.
Lyster’s 2024 tour of Flotow’s Martha - the first professional production in Victoria in over 60 years—was enthusiastically received by regional audiences.
“I embarked on the journey of recreating the original Lyster Company’s model of touring small country towns and presenting grand operas because I truly believe that opera should be for everyone. 
“Our company’s mission is to make opera accessible to all, at a price everyone can afford. The enjoyment of great music should never be limited by where you live. 
“Charlton proved to be a great experience for us last year, with a very enthusiastic audience. The Rex is a magnificent space to sing in and we can’t wait to return.”
Kevin Tamanini will make his debut with Lyster Opera as musical director.
 Tenor Paul Biencourt, a familiar figure to Melbourne audiences through his work with companies like Melbourne Opera and Victorian Opera, will take on the role of Belmonte. Lyster Opera favourite Helen Koehne will perform as Blonde. 
Moffat takes on dual roles as both director and the villainous Osmin,