For the third edition of its annual Festival presented by BMO, Vancouver Opera has curated nine days of voice, music, theatre and visual arts for the curious of all ages.
Exploring the theme of Fairytales & Fables, the celebration officially opens on April 27th with performances of the mainstage festival operas. Rossini’s much-loved La Cenerentola (Cinderella) kicks off the day with a 2:00 p.m. matinee at the Vancouver Playhouse. Gounod’s masterpiece, Faust will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. The celebration continues with a dynamic series of programs, panels and performances daily from April 27th to May 5th.
Festival highlights include the world premiere of Brian Current’s The River of Light in co-production with the Vancouver Bach Choir on May 3 for one performance only. One of Canada’s outstanding composers, Brian Current conceived of this exciting large-scale oratorio for chorus, soloists and orchestra in a multi-movement composition.
On April 28th the Vancouver Opera invites audiences of all ages to its Party on the Plaza; a full day of free community stage performances, workshops and activities. Watch a live circus spectacular from CircusWest at šxʷƛ̓exən Xwtl'a7shn (formerly QET Plaza), take part in a backstage tour of the Queen Elizabeth Theatre, enjoy performances by the Roaming Diva, join talks and panel discussions and participate in VOF ArtWalks. These events runs from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with the Patio Bar open all afternoon.
The CBC Chamber Music Series returns to CBC Studio 700. These short, original chamber music concerts performed by members of the Vancouver Opera Orchestra and Chorus and invited guests feature music inspired by Fairytales and Fables. Artists will include the Bergmann Piano Duo, members of the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artists Program, and members of the Standing Wave Ensemble.
Vancouver Opera presents Opera Off Site on May 1st ; pop-up performances at the Main Street Brewing Company and a screening of the 1926 black and white film adaptation of Faust at the Fox Cabaret featuring live accompaniment and special presentation of Fenlon & Fenlon featuring soprano Rachel Fenlon. “Our Festival is evolving to be an inclusive event showcasing the finest work of Vancouver Opera as well as many of our community partners” says Vancouver Opera General Director, Kim Gaynor. “We hope to make opera more accessible by breaking down the perceived barriers to attending and inviting everyone to take part in the celebration.”
Tickets and Info: Vancouver Opera Ticket Centre 604 683 0222 or vancouveropera.ca
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