Our winter production of Leoš Janáček’s pioneering 1923 opera The Cunning Little Vixen promises a true feast for the eyes and ears, thanks to its playful score and vibrant, fantastical costumes created by Tony Award-nominated designer Tom Scutt.

Janáček’s tale tells of a young fox who escapes capture in pursuit of freedom, adventure, and love, revealing the delicate relationship between humans and the natural world—and in this opera, it’s the forest creatures who shine brightest on stage.

Leoš Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen opens our winter season, led by COC Music Director Johannes Debus on the conductor's podium. Ahead of the show's opening, hear directly from Johannes as he explores his own journey into the fantastical woods of this rare operatic gem.

Canadian coloratura soprano, Juno Award-winner and COC favourite Jane Archibald regularly performs at the world’s great opera houses and concert halls, with recent roles ranging from Zerbinetta to Alcina, and Donna Anna to Salome. This winter, she returns to the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts to star as Sharp Ears in Leoš Janáček’s The Cunning Little Vixen. 

We asked her about her favourite Toronto haunts, the challenges and rewards of preparing for Vixen, and how she reconnects with the natural world—as well as what she hopes audiences will take away with them after seeing this very special production.