...Sydney Opera House: Carmen. Sydney Botanical Gardens. More Aussie literature...

I got to tick another travel experience box last night when I visited the Sydney Opera House for the opening night of the new production of Carmen.

The production was put on by Opera Australia but unfortunately wasn't up to the standard of opera that I'm used to. It was more like an opera buffa (comic opera) than the tragedy it's supposed to be. And although it was sung in the original French (which I prefer) there wasn't that much passion and intensity in the performance.

Even though it wasn't what I'd hoped for I'm still pleased I went; plus I got to meet the stars of the show afterwards when I walked outside to be greeted by the live horses they had on stage.

This week I had more animal encounters with the wild sulphur crested cockatoos, bats and Mr Toad at Sydney Botanical Gardens. There was quite a lot of activity in the gardens as there was a performance of Wind in the Willows and I got to chat to some of the actors whilst they were waiting for their cue, quite surreal. The gardens are gorgeous and provide a lovely view of the harbour, Bridge and the Opera House. They're really relaxing and are a great place to sit & chill out whilst reading a book.

I finished Rhett Hutchence's autobiography this week. Much like the Aussie author's drug habit this book is highly addictive. It was such an interesting, compelling read about all the various adventures his had in his life so far, his constant battles and Michael Hutchence's life & death. If you get the chance I'd really recommend reading it.

Last but not least HAPPY BIRTHDAY MUM!!!

Today's my mum's birthday and it feels really bizarre as it's the first time in my life I haven't celebrated it with her. We're really close and birthdays are quite big occasions in my family. Last year we were all sunning ourselves in Goa and now I'm by myself on the other side of the world. Thankfully with the wonders of modern technology I got to give her a call and wish her many happy returns of the day.

Photo: Wild Sulphur Crested Cockatoos at Sydney Botanical Gardens (because my zooms broken on my camera I had to go stealth like and crawl up to the parrots to capture this shot)

[Next blog entry: Sydney Monday January 28th 2008]