Cocteau’s Circle

The Australian Chamber Orchestra is celebrating fifty years in 2025 and is one of the most acclaimed chamber orchestras in the world, renowned for their inspired programming, unrivalled virtuosity, energy and individuality. Under the direction of Artistic Director Richard Tognetti, they take audiences on the adventure to create truly transformative experiences. 

Join the Australian Chamber Orchestra on an adventure to Paris as they close their 50th Anniversary National Concert Season with a night of celebration and surprise.

Step into the intimate, dreamy light of Le Boeuf sur le toit, the legendary cabaret bar of 1920s Paris. The liquor is strong and spirits are high. War is over and art is flourishing. Here, Europe’s most fashionable mingle with the city’s greatest minds: Coco Chanel, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway Gertrude Stein…
And you’re invited to join their circle.

Richard Tognetti directs the Australian Chamber Orchestra as they dive into an era of innovation and wonder, featuring renowned Australian soprano Alexandra Oomens.

Le Gateau Chocolat, of La Clique and La Soirée fame, will be the ACO maitre d’. Brilliant bass and exceptional entertainer, he’ll take you on a journey into les années folles (the crazy years).

The ACO have always been rule-breakers, so this program shines a light on the innovators who paved the way for future trend-setters. You’ll hear the music of Erik Satie, Lili Boulanger and the group dubbed ‘Les Six’ – composers including Francis Poulenc and Darius Milhaud, who took their inspiration from the transgressive jazz they heard at Le Boeuf as well as Cocteau’s avant-garde poetry.

Directed by Circa’s Yaron Lifschitz, who always brings the unexpected, this will be a spectacular evening of storytelling, song and surrealism.