If you needed just one reason to attend this revival of David McVicar’s 2014 production of Don Giovanni, it would be the opportunity to witness the Australian debuts of Ukrainian baritone Andrei Kymach and French-Israeli bass-baritone Yuri Kissin.

Andrei Kymach as Don Giovanni and the Opera Australia Chorus in Opera Australia’s 2023 production of Don Giovanni at the Sydney Opera House. Photo © Keith Saunders

In the title role, Kymach commands the stage and his presence is felt before he has even sung a note. The winner of the 2019 BBC Cardiff Singer of the World, Kymach delivers a vocal masterclass, and his dexterity enables him to make child’s play of his so-called ‘Champagne aria’. It is, however, his serenade “Deh! vieni alla finestra” that truly shows off his seductively dark and velvety voice. Like the countless victims of Don Giovanni’s feigned affections, it is hard not to swoon.

Kissin is equally brilliant as Don Giovanni’s sidekick Leporello, and he elicits the most laughs of the evening. Showcasing his rich voice and elegant phrasing, he goes to town with his rendition of “Madamina, il catalogo è questo” (the ‘Catalogue aria’), in...