Our production of Salome will be conducted by Maestro David Stern, who noted on the first day of rehearsal that while it is easy to draw the gorgeous colours out in the music, it is more challenging — and more interesting — to take care of the details that really add depth to the opera.

"The wild elements of the story are enveloped in a music so rapturous and seductive that the audience cannot help but be captivated by what they hear and see," Stern said. "Strauss is the master psychologist and he portrays intricate characters with brilliant colours. You don't need to be an expert on opera to delight in the work, all you need is to come and let yourself be amazed."