Opera Australia stands down workers until late May

Taras Berezhansky, Natalie Aroyan and Diego Torre in Opera Australia’s recent production of Attila. The opera was forced to close early due to the spread of coronavirus. Picture: Prudence Upton.

Opera Australia is seeking government assistance to keep its “extraordinarily skilled and highly talented workforce” as the company stands down most of its staff until at least the end of May.

The nation’s biggest performing arts company with turnover of more than $115 million has been forced to cancel multiple performances in Sydney and Melbourne due to the COVID-19 lockdown.

READ MORE: Another round of broken arts | Industry on the brink | Plea to help the shows go on | Lyndon Terracini: the music has stopped

In a statement on Wednesday, OA said it was dealing with a complete absence of ticket revenue because of the theatre closures. Box office was worth $61m in 2018, more than half the company’s total income.

Staff will be stood down from Monday on 80 per cent of their regular salary until the end of May. Senior managers will continue to work but also have taken a pay cut in line with that of other employees.

The company is continuing discussions with federal and state governments to “secure further provisions” to support its staff beyond May.

OA chairman David Mortimer said the company is working to retain and support its staff.

“For many this is the most challenging time of their lives, and certainly for the people of Opera Australia,” he said. “Their commitment, tireless efforts, passion and unique skills define the company. We are extremely grateful for the ongoing support of all our stakeholders and the arts community.

“On behalf of the board, we are grateful to everyone that makes up the OA team for their efforts, along with their patience and support through these difficult times.”

Industry body Live Performance Australia has estimated losses to the sector of at least $540m if venues close for three months.