A Tapestry of Operatic and Classical Marvels by Pacific Opera Victoria
Victoria, BC is set to become the epicenter of operatic and classical brilliance with Pacific Opera Victoria's upcoming season. The lineup promises a thrilling journey through a tapestry of human emotion and artistic expression. From the gripping storylines of Verdi’s Rigoletto and Puccini's Tosca, to the profound themes of Britten’s The Turn of the Screw, and the mythological depths of Gluck’s Orpheus and Eurydice, the season offers something for every lover of the arts. Additionally, the Luminary Series at the McPherson will illuminate Victoria with world-class performances.
Rigoletto is a gripping opera that delves into the depths of human emotion, showcasing the tragic tale of Rigoletto a court jester consumed by vengeance. The opera follows Rigoletto’s tumultuous journey as he navigates the intricate webs of power, deceit, and desire. With its iconic characters, including the manipulative Duke of Mantua and the innocent Gilda, Verdi’s masterpiece weaves a narrative of love, betrayal, and redemption.
We are thrilled to introduce the inaugural Luminary Series at the McPherson, a dazzling showcase of exceptional artists bringing their notable projects to Victoria for one-night-only events. Featuring world-class artists including Barbara Hannigan & Bertrand Chamayou, Lawrence Brownlee, and the Gryphon Trio, the Luminary Series at the McPherson promises unforgettable performances and intimate encounters with some of classical music’s most extraordinary talents.
Based on the novella by Henry James that tells the story of a young, inexperienced governess sent to a country house to care for two children, whom she is gradually convinced have been corrupted by the ghosts haunting the house. While maintaining melodic vocal lines, Benjamin Britten’s alternating themes and keys represent the “screw tightening”. The piece leaves us with the question: Were there ever really ghosts or was it all in her head? Does the governess’ desire to do her job and her own anxieties lead her into madness, or is she truly fighting for the souls of the children in her charge?
Welcoming back Victoria’s own Josh Lovell in the title role, this piece will be one of the first explorations of French Baroque in the company’s history. Based on the famous Greek myth of the musician Orpheus who conquers the spirits of hell using the power of music to bring his love back from the underworld.
This new production will center on the idea of truth: truth as told to us by political and religious leaders, truths expressed to us through the eyes of the artists. In a world where the very idea of truth is negotiated how do we know to trust ourselves and stay true to our own truth? Tosca is a roller coaster story of love, lust, murder and political intrigue. With Puccini‘s richly romantic score, it is one of the composer’s finest works. This is a co-production with Vancouver Opera.
Pacific Opera Victoria's forthcoming season is not just a series of performances; it's a celebration of the arts that promises to engage the mind and soul. With operas that question reality, explore myths, and delve into human emotions, audiences are invited to experience the profound and transformative power of music. The Luminary Series further enriches this offering with world-class performances, making Victoria a beacon of cultural brilliance in the opera world. As the curtains rise, we look forward to a season that will surely leave an indelible mark on all who attend.
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