


An Australian Premiere of epic emotional power.
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. Known for his bold, music-led storytelling across opera, theatre, and musicals (Candide, My Brilliant Career, Dear Evan Hansen), 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 season.
2hr 30min. 1 interval.
23rd May, 2026
31st May, 2026

Wheelchair seats are available in the Roslyn Packer Theatre. There is level access from the main entrance into the theatre. Please contact the box office via (02) 9250 1777 to discuss your requirements prior to booking.
GETTING TO THE VENUE
BY BUS:
Bus routes 324 and 325 stop outside the theatre.
BY TRAIN:
Circular Quay and Wynyard are the closest stations, and the theatre is approximately 15 minutes walk away.
BY METRO:
Barangaroo is the closest station, approximately a 6 minute walk to the theatre.
BY CAR:
Limited on-street parking is available outside Roslyn Packer Theatre on Hickson Road. Make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the performance starting time as it can take more than 10 minutes to park, get to the theatre and be seated in time.
CREATIVES:
Composer - Alessandro Scarlatti
Conductor - Erin Helyard
Director - Dean Bryant
Set Designer - Jeremy Allen
Costume Designer - Melanie Liertz
Lighting Designer - BROCKMAN
ARTISTS:
Abel - Madison Nonoa
Caine - Ashlyn Tymms
Eve - Sara Macliver
Adam - Kyle Stegall
God - Stephanie Dillon
Lucifer - Freddy Shaw
Orchestra of the Antipodes
Pinchgut Opera's The First Murder runs for 2hr 30min. 1 interval.
Pinchgut Opera's The First Murder is at Sydney's Roslyn Packer Theatre, which is located at 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, Sydney, 2000.
Pinchgut Opera's The First Murder tickets start at $94.
Check the top of this page for current availability on Pinchgut Opera's The First Murder tickets on TodayTix.