Beethoven’s only opera returns to the COC for the first time in nearly 15 years, in a brand new production reflecting the bold creative vision of acclaimed director Matthew Ozawa. Ozawa’s staging uses revolving steel cages, industrial lights, and television screens to create an opera as arresting visually as it is musically—a revolutionary retelling of Beethoven’s triumphant hymn to justice and freedom.

Read on to learn 10 things to know about Fidelio before heading to the opera!

The red carpet is rolled out and we are ready for this year’s Centre Stage: “Lights. Camera. Opera!” As production kicks into high gear, the COC is delighted to introduce our event co-chairs, Kristy Balkwill and Lily Li!

The pair brings a wealth of experience to planning the annual fundraiser in support of emerging Canadian artists and is looking forward to taking the company’s signature gala to the next level with this year’s Hollywood-inspired theme.

Appearing at the COC for the first time in 30 years, our spring production of Don Pasquale brings together fizzy comedy, Technicolor staging design, and an irrepressible score that animates this classic tale of a generational battle of wits and wills.

In the opera, the ageing Pasquale, eager to cut off his rebellious nephew Ernesto’s inheritance, refuses permission for Ernesto to marry. Little does he realise that his own chosen bride—the fiery Norina—is, in fact, Ernesto’s secret lover. Comedy, intrigue, and vocal fireworks ensue in a work widely regarded as the culminating achievement of the 19th-century opera buffa tradition.

Read on to learn more about the music of Donizetti’s comic masterpiece—and how his talent for melody and keen theatrical instincts helped to make Don Pasquale one of his most popular and enduring operas.