SPOTLIGHT: A Woman's Love and Life - Voxalis Opera

Living the Love Story: Baritone Jake Lyle on Voxalis Opera’s A Woman’s Love and Life

Brisbane’s vibrant arts scene is buzzing with anticipation as Voxalis Opera returns to the 4MBS Festival of Classics with one of its most beloved productions—A Woman’s Love and Life, a masterfully reimagined rendition of Schumann’s Frauenliebe und Leben. Taking place Saturday 7th June, 2025 at St Andrew’s Uniting Church, the performance blends German art song with poignant theatrical storytelling, and brought to life by an exceptional cast of local artists.

A cornerstone of Voxalis Opera’s repertoire, A Woman’s Love and Life breathes new emotion and nuance into Schumann’s classic song cycle in a beautifully staged 60-minute performance. The audience is invited to journey through the arc of a woman’s life in love—from the electric thrill of meeting her soulmate, to the joy of marriage and motherhood, and finally, the aching grief of loss. Mezzo-soprano Cassandra Seidemann leads the cast as Schumann’s protagonist, reflecting on her life and enduring love.

Among the cast is baritone Jake Lyle, whose powerful voice and magnetic stage presence have made him a rising star across Queensland. I caught up with Jake ahead of the show to chat about his artistic journey, the unique approach behind this performance, and why Brisbane’s opera scene deserves the spotlight.

“I never saw myself doing anything other than performing and telling stories.”

For Jake, the path to opera began in a more unexpected way: Shrek the Musical in his hometown of Gladstone. “That was the gateway,” he laughs. “I’d always loved performing—my brother Lachie and I used to stage plays in our loungeroom. But it was seeing Alfie Boe in the 25th anniversary concert of Les Misérables that lit the spark.” He remembers, “I asked Mum if we could go to Sanity in Gladstone to pick up musical CDs—Phantom of the Opera, Les Mis, and the original West Side Story film soundtrack were the first ones I got.”

Jake’s bold voice was always part of him, though not always appreciated in school. “My primary school teachers didn’t always love my loud voice,” he jokes. “But once I started proper singing lessons, I found myself naturally drawn to a more ‘legit’ sound, and that path eventually led me to the Queensland Conservatorium. I am so grateful for the incredible mentors I’ve had along the way. These people know who they are and I could not be where I am now, chasing this career, without the constant support they continue to give me.”

A New Lens on Love

Though Jake does not sing any of the original Frauenliebe und Leben songs, his role is essential to this reimagined version. “Instead, I perform other pieces which have been added to enrich the storytelling. Camilo Lopez, our director, has reimagined the cycle by weaving in these extra songs to add dimension and emotional context. So for me, it’s about stepping into the memories and emotional world of the main character—adding colour, tension, and tenderness to the moments she’s reflecting on.”

Jake hopes audiences walk away emotionally stirred: “The show touches on so many parts of love—joy, intimacy, heartbreak—and I think there’s something in it that almost everyone can relate to. Even though it’s based on one woman’s story, this version opens it up in a way that feels really universal. If someone leaves the performance thinking about someone they’ve loved—or even just feeling a little more connected to themselves—that’s the best outcome we could ask for.”

Voxalis Opera: Elevating Local Voices

With its innovative productions and artist-forward ethos, Voxalis Opera has quickly become a cornerstone of Brisbane’s classical scene—and a deeply meaningful company for Jake: “What I love about Voxalis is their mission to support emerging artists and reimagine how opera is presented. You’re not just learning the music—you’re collaborating, storytelling, and creating something meaningful with your peers and mentors.”

Performed with English surtitles and accompanied by the brilliant pianist Sarka Budinska, the recital is anchored by mezzo-soprano Cassandra Seidemann in the central role. Alongside her, Rebecca Goobanko and Jake bring to life the figures who populate the woman’s most significant memories. “Working with people like Cassandra and Rebecca—who are both incredibly talented and professional—has been such a privilege."

He adds, “That kind of mentorship and collaboration is rare, and really valuable. Being part of something this innovative has been creatively fulfilling—it’s pushed all of us to think differently and work as a true ensemble.”

From Recital to Theatre

Voxalis first premiered A Woman’s Love and Life in 2023 to critical acclaim, praised for its elegant staging and emotional weight. But make no mistake—this is not your standard lieder recital. “This semi-staged approach makes the whole thing feel way more theatrical, which changes everything about how we perform the songs,” Jake explains.

He continues, “It’s not just about singing the notes perfectly—it’s about really living the emotions and drama behind them. Honestly, it’s a pleasure to perform like this because it lets me connect with the music and the story on a much deeper level—and I think that makes it more real for the audience too.”

A Love Letter to Brisbane’s Arts Scene

Jake is passionate not only about the work but also about the city that has shaped his blossoming career: “What really stands out about Brisbane’s arts scene is the passion that drives it. No matter the scale or style, the artists, performers, and creatives here genuinely care about their work and the community they’re part of. That passion creates a strong sense of connection and support—people truly lift each other up and work together to help the arts thrive.”

He adds, “There’s also incredible diversity across the scene. From opera and classical music to theatre, live music, and experimental projects, there’s always something happening. It’s a vibrant, evolving community where you can discover fresh and exciting work if you take the time to explore.” (Wink wink... Go check out Stage Buzz Brisbane for the hundreds of productions happening this year!)

Jake credits that same spirit as one of the driving forces behind Voxalis’ innovative success. “It’s not just about preserving tradition, but making opera feel relevant and accessible to people here in Brisbane. Being part of that effort feels important because it helps open doors for local talent and invites more people to experience this incredible art form.”

So, What’s Next?

While Jake is keeping busy with multiple upcoming projects, he has a few dream roles in mind: “Papageno, Figaro, Marcello and Billy Budd,” he shares. “Way down the line, dream roles would be Don Giovanni and Rigoletto—those are huge roles that I’d love to grow into with time and experience.”

He’s also got musical theatre dreams: “I’ve always wanted to take on Phantom, Javert, and Don Quixote. I’ve had the chance to play Raoul already… and I’d love to revisit that again.” But for now, all eyes are on A Woman’s Love and Life—a delicate, heartfelt meditation on love, memory, and the loss.

(Side note: I saw Jake perform in Spamalot with Paterson Productions and he was absolutely phenomenal. It’s honestly still one of my favourite community musicals I’ve seen in Brisbane. I went twice!)

Don’t Miss Out: A Woman’s Love and Life

Presented by Voxalis Opera

Part of the 2025 4MBS Festival of Classics

🗓 Saturday 7 June, 7:30pm

📍 St Andrew’s Uniting Church, 299 Ann St, Brisbane City

🎟 Tickets from $35–$60 | Book Now