Performer: Robert Kemp

A remarkable Leïla from Desiree Frahn and insightful direction from Michael Gow combine for a precious production of Bizet’s early masterpiece.

Bizet's The Pearl Fishers has its problems, but a good account of its score does have its pleasures, especially when it's all brightened up by the presence of Emma Matthews.

Beautiful sets and a fine cast led by Guillaume Tourniaire can't quite compensate for the dramatic weaknesses in Opera Australia's new production of Bizet's Les pêcheurs de perles.