Haruhisa Handa Ends 15-Year Opera Australia Partnership as Harbour Shows Continue

Dr. Haruhisa Handa, a Japanese billionaire known for his philanthropy, will conclude his 15-year collaboration with Opera Australia on 31 December 2026. Through the International Foundation for Arts and Culture, Handa has donated over $15 million and was instrumental in initiating annual open-air performances starting in 2012. The reasons for this separation are not fully disclosed; however, sources have pointed to Opera Australia’s pivot towards musicals and disagreements over funding as possible factors. While Opera Australia acknowledged the positive impact of their partnership, it did not elaborate on the reasons for the split. The outdoor series will proceed with a revival of Verdi's Aida from 27 March to 25 April 2027, and IFAC will continue its support for Handa Opera at Millthorpe, scheduled for 25 to 28 March 2027.