To coincide with Earth Hour, the Melbourne-based company will stage eco-minded performance.

On March 28 across Australia and the world, people will be switching their gadgets, radios, lights and televisions off, as part of Earth Hour, the annual international initiative to raise awareness for the environment, sustainability and energy consumption. If you think this is a good idea, then you might just have earned yourself a ticket to the opera

To coincide with eco-minded event, Victorian Opera has partnered with the community publication Dumbo Feather to present Opera for the Earth, and the price of admission is a good idea. Described as part performance, part conversation, those hoping to attend will have to submit a story or an idea relating to the subject of sustainability in the arts before being offered a ticket. It is hoped the unique concept, which was developed as part of Victorian Opera’s involvement in the Australia Council’s Greenie in Residence program, will spark debate and innovation to promote the importance of environmental sustainability in performance and opera.

The one-off performance will feature performances from Victorian Opera’s Matster of Music program’s current students, as well as program allumus Carlos E. Bárcenas. Victorian Opera’s Youth Chorus Ensemble will also appear, performing familiar operatic favourites and music theatre numbers.

Submissions of ideas and stories can be made via twitter using the hashtags #victorianopera and #sustainableme or by sending a written submission to competitions@victorianopera.com.au before Friday March 20. Opera for the Earth will take place The White House, St Kilda, March 28.