On 2 April 2023, the Olivier Awards were presented at the Royal Albert Hall. Celebrating achievements in London theatre, two Olivier’s are opera-focussed: Best New Opera Production and Outstanding Achievement in Opera.

Best New Opera Production went to the Royal Opera House’s production of Handel’s Alcina which premiered in November last year. Countertenor Anthony Roth Costanzo presented the award to soprano Mary Bevan who performed the role of Morgana, as well as designer Antony McDonald and Director of The Royal Opera Oliver Mears who said: ‘Subversive, vibrant and seductive, Richard Jones’s intoxicating production – with Antony McDonald’s endlessly inventive set and, of course, the sensational cast – was a pleasure to watch and be a part of.’

The award for Outstanding Achievement in Opera went to artist and director William Kentridge for his Barbican Theatre’s production of Sibyl - a chamber opera in two parts, following the story of the ancient Greek priestess. Created with fellow South African artists, Sibyl featured Kentridge’s artistic practice through projection and hand-painted backdrops, as well as dance elements with music composed by Nhlanhla Mahlangu and Kyle Shepherd.