Presented by Musica Viva Australia in association with Sydney Festival & Carriageworks

The Cage Project

A mesmerising spectacle for ears and eyes.

Australian percussionist, composer, and sound artist Matthias Schack-Arnott collaborates with acclaimed French pianist Cédric Tiberghien on John Cage’s Sonatas and Interludes of 1948.

Known for his unique approach to sound, Schack-Arnott creates sculptural musical worlds that are beautifully lit and dramatically staged. In The Cage Project, he reimagines Cage’s iconic prepared piano work, augmenting it with a massive kinetic sound sculpture that floats above the piano, dancing in synchronicity with Tiberghien’s exquisite playing.

A pioneer in percussive development, Cage used the prepared piano to expand the instrument’s sonic possibilities. More than 70 years later, The Cage Project transforms it into a three dimensional sculptural world, with Tiberghien at its heart.

Premiered at the 2023 Adelaide and Perth Festivals, The Cage Project was described by Limelight as ‘engagingly playful, richly emotional and deeply meditative.’ Now, audiences in Canberra, Melbourne, and Sydney can experience its magic.

Dates & Times
[object Object]

Duration: 1 hour 10 mins (no interval). Please note, running times are approximate and subject to change.

Tickets 

Standard & Concession

Premium $153 ($135 Concession)
A reserve $125 ($110 Concession)
B reserve $92 ($80 Concession)
C reserve $65 ($56 Concession)

Group 10+

Premium $137.70
A reserve $112.50
B reserve $82.80
C reserve $58.50

 

Under 40 

A–C reserve $49

Student 

Premium $135
A reserve 110
B reserve $80
C reserve $56

A Transaction Fee between $4 and $8.50 applies to orders made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply.

A ticket limit of six is in place online to ensure fair ticket access for all. Want to bring a bigger party? Call our Box Office during business hours on (03) 9699 3333 to book.

Artists

The Cage Project
Paul Kildea & Matthias Schack-Arnott original concept
Matthias Schack-Arnott sculptural design & musical treatment
Cédric Tiberghien pianist and musical treatment
Keith Tucker technical design and management, lighting design
Nick Roux system design and robotics
Michaela Coventry (Sage Arts) producer

Program

John Cage
Sonatas and Interludes

The Cage Project was co-commissioned by Musica Viva Australia, Perth Festival, Adelaide Festival, and the Naomi Milgrom Foundation. Musica Viva Australia is grateful to Ensemble Partners Ian Dickson AM & Reg Holloway and the Nelson Meers Foundation and Melbourne Recital Centre. 

Welcome to a new world

MVA 2025

Explore Musica Viva Australia's 2025 Season

Accessibility
Wheelchair access
Assistance Animals Welcome
Melbourne Recital Centre
31 Sturt St Southbank 3006
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