Pinchgut Opera presents ‘The First Murder’ by Scarlatti

The First Murder (Il primo omicidio) is a Baroque masterpiece of rare emotional power, and in 2026, Australian audiences have the chance to experience it for the very first time.

Composed in 1707 by Alessandro Scarlatti, this oratorio retells the story of Cain and Abel with music of luminous beauty and searing dramatic force. Moving from jealousy and violence to forgiveness and hope, it offers a profound meditation on humanity's earliest moral struggle.

This evocative new staging reunites Pinchgut with celebrated Australian director Dean Bryant, whose acclaimed production of Giustino in 2023 brought wit, clarity, and theatrical dynamism to the Baroque opera stage. Known for his bold, music-led storytelling across opera, theatre, and musicals, Bryant brings fresh urgency to Scarlatti's drama of family conflict, innocence, sacrifice, and redemption.

An exceptional ensemble unites for this production, including Sara Macliver who returns with her signature warmth and artistry. She is joined by Ashlyn Tymms, Madison Nonoa, and Kyle Stegall, each bringing fresh vitality in their Pinchgut debuts. Stephanie Dillon returns after her breakout performance in Julius Caesar, and Taryn Fiebig Scholar, Freddy Shaw takes his first featured role on the professional stage. Together with the Orchestra of the Antipodes under Erin Helyard’s masterful direction, they create a performance of emotional truth and raw splendour.

Marking Pinchgut’s return to the Roslyn Packer Theatre after the triumph of The Fairy Queen in 2025, this Australian premiere is set to be one of the most moving events of the 2026.