Edmonton Opera magazine - Count Ory

WESTERN CANADIAN PREMIERE

Spring 2019

4 Opera Tots

23 Community Arts Events Listings

6 Partners and Sponsors

27 Artists’ Profiles

9 Sustainability Fund

35 Edmonton Opera Chorus and

11 Director’s Circle

12 Friends of Edmonton Opera

15 Endowment Fund

17 Composer Bio

18 Synopsis

20 Program Notes

Cast and Production Credits

15230-128 Ave., Edmonton, AB T5V 1A8 Ph: 780-424-4040 Fax: 780-429-0600 Email: info@edmontonopera.com www.edmontonopera.com

Edmonton Symphony Orchestra

36 Planned Giving

37 Valentine’s Gala

40 2019/20 Season Preview

45 Edmonton Opera Board and Staff

46 Upcoming Events

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

The Edmonton Opera magazine is published by Playhouse Publications Ltd. 10177 - 105 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1E2 Ph: 780-423-5834 • Fax: 780-413-6185 • www.playhousepublications.ca

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

GOVERNMENT & FOUNDATION SUPPORT

Edmonton Opera respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Treaty 6 territory, traditional lands of First Nations and Métis people.

OPERA

TOTS! In March, Edmonton Opera hosted its first-ever opera experience for the little ones, titled ‘Opera Tots.’ This fun event introduced toddlers to the art form through a sensory collage including the sights, sounds, and textures of spring. Over thirty babies and their parents attended over the course of two performances.

Edmonton-based theatre artist Kate Ryan created the experience with lots of colours and sounds for kids to engage with. The performers told a simple story of winter snow slowly giving way to spring, complete with chirping birds, rattling snakes, and of course, familiar opera tunes.

Edmonton Opera chorus member Christina O’Dell sang small selections from popular operas such as Bizet’s Carmen and Mozart’s The Magic Flute.

“When you think of opera, it doesn’t immediately strike you as something meant for babies,” says Tim Yakimec, General Director of Edmonton

Opera. “But opera is ultimately about storytelling through music, which can easily be presented in a way for tots to enjoy. We chose music that was light and calming, and the singing was lullaby-soft. When you add in colourful props and costumes, the overall effect would be quite spectacular through the eyes of a toddler.”

Each child responded differently to the performance. While some watched from afar, totally mesmerized, some decided they wanted to be a part of the action, interacting with our performers and playing with all the props. Others were so excited by the music that they just ran joyfully around the room throughout the show!

MODERN GIFTS | JEWELRY | FINE PENS | FLOWERS

SOUTH COURTYARD ENTRANCE 10150 100 STREET 780 420 6311 THEARTWORKS.CA

TheArtworks_Opera_Mar2019_Goddess_Flowers.indd 3

4 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

3/18/19 10:01 PM

Now it’s a matter of style.

INTRODUCING

10363 170 Street, Edmonton | 780.488.7001 | parkfurnishings.ca

and

PARTNERS

SPONSORS

SEASON SPONSORS

The Rob Hood Fund PRESENTING SPONSOR

Judy Cosco Production Sponsors Count Ory PRODUCTION sponsor

Count Ory opening night sponsor

Count Ory TUESDAY night sponsor

Count Ory friDAY night sponsor

Jim & Sharon Brown OPERA BRUNCH Sponsor

Sponsor of the Edmonton Opera Chorus

Conductor Sponsor Legacy Gift from the Estate of

Josephine (Joan) Anne Bensted

Gold Partners Parking Sponsor

SPONSORS

media Supporters

www.wittenlaw.com

6 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Opera al Fresco sponsor

Official Supporters

780.439.6060

campustower.com

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

Production photographs of Edmonton Opera’s Count Ory provided by Nanc Price Photography.

Edmonton Opera gratefully acknowledges the Kucey Dental Group, who offers complimentary emergency dental services for EO artists, and Dr. Mat Rose, who offers medical services for EO artists.

Edmonton Opera is grateful for the support of these sponsors, suppliers and media partners.

For more information about supporting Edmonton Opera, please call 780.288.2510 or email development@edmontonopera.com.

2 01 9/2 02 0

AT THE CHATEAU LACOMBE Cast of Rigoletto • Sunday, October 6, 2019 Cast of The Marriage of Figaro • Sunday, January 26, 2020 Cast of Candide • Sunday, March 8, 2020 Includes buffet brunch, welcome mimosa, dessert and performances Brunch ticket packages on sale now! Adult $240 • Child (under 12) $90

COUNT ORY 7

One stormy night in a castle deep in the heart of France, a tale of love and laughter is born. Write your own story in the home of your dreams.

We wish to thank the following Sustainability Fund individuals, corporations and foundations who have committed to Edmonton Opera’s sustainability.

Each of the following contributors to the Sustainability Fund have committed a minimum of $50,000 over five years.

Individuals

Jim & Monica Allen Bruce & Carol Bentley Robert & Michelle Bessette Jim & Sharon Brown John Cameron Carol & David Cass Richard S. Cook Judy Cosco Darren & Laurel Durstling Bruce Hagstrom Mark & Nancy Heule Laurence Jewell Dianne Kipnes Irving Kipnes

Ashif & Zainul Mawji Phil Milroy & Jane Russell Dr. Thomas & Melanie Nakatsui Jack & Esther Ondrack Sir Francis Price Hon. Marguerite Trussler Maureen & Randall Purvis Bernie Robitaille Arnold & Grace Rumbold Angus & Heather Watt Ed Wiebe & Marcia Johnson Bill & Paulette Winter Glenn & Sandra Woolsey

Corporations & Foundations

Al-terra Engineering Ltd. Clark Builders Dentons Canada LLP Kasian Architects Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation Ledcor Group of Companies

PCL Constructors Inc. Qualico Shelley & Guy Scott Family Foundation Sorrell Financial Standard General Inc. Wheaton Family Foundation

Shared Commitments

James Archibald & Heidi Christoph, Jennifer Brown, Hans & Susanne Forbrich, Melcor Developments Ltd., and James & Sheila Wheatley.

The first stage of the Sustainability Fund, to obtain 50 gifts, has been achieved.

The second stage, to reach 100 gifts, is now in progress.

For more information on the Sustainability Fund, please contact the Program Concierge, Gwen Horvath, at gwen.horvath@edmontonopera.com or at 780.288.2510.

Apple Fitness Store

11629 - 149 Street 780-452-8877 | applefitness.com

The Biggest Little Collector Shop in Edmonton

West Edmonton Coin & Stamp #1390 West Edmonton Mall Lower Level, Phase 4 780-444-1156 AUTHORIZED UPPER DECK DEALER

2019 25-CENT COIN SET

CERTIFIED

DINOSAURS OF CANADA $19.95/set

WE’RE MORE THAN JUST COINS AND STAMPS! Sports Memorabilia & Autographs Sports Cards Action Figures Premium Statues Plush Toys Supplies for Collectibles Gaming Cards Board Games Hot Wheels Coin Banks Canadian Souvenirs & Much More!

10 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Edmonton Opera director’s circle The Director’s Circle recognizes those patrons whose significant financial support and ongoing commitment enable Edmonton Opera to continue to produce award-winning and compelling art in our community.

Bravo and thank you!

For more information about the Director’s Circle or to become a member, please call Gordana Bosiocic at 780.996.2744.

Season SponsorS Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation Creekwood Rob Hood Fund Production Sponsors LA TRAVIATA Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler Count Ory Jim & Sharon Brown MaestroS $10,000+ Allard Foundation Anonymous Larry Eberlein Bennett Jones Stephen & Lynn Mandel The Summit Foundation

LEADERS $5,000-$9,999 Trudy Callaghan Joan Lopatka & Bill Rutledge The Overhead Door Co. of Edmonton Marjorie Purdy Chris & Vivian Varvis PATRONS $3,000-$4,999 Tricia Abbott Frank Calder Fath Group/O’Hanlon Paving Ltd. Peter & Astrid Griep Jeffrey Jansen Dr. Christine Kyriakides Steven & Day LePoole Rod & Heleen McLeod Arliss Miller Alan Rose Dr. P.J. White & Patty Whiting Ralph James Wood

BenefactorS $1,750-$2,999 Darlene Acton Anonymous Douglas K. Bingham & Sheila Janki-Bingham David & Patricia Cassie City Lumber Corporation Marian Clarke Elaine Coachman Sandi Ann Darrell Michael Day & Marieke Kortbeek Robert Edmunds Averton Group Gabor Gyenes & Erika Mullner Brian Kucey & Elena Hernandez-Kucey Peggy & John Marko Alan Mather Carman & Averie McNary Dr. Kyle & Colleen Murray Eleanor Olszewski Dr. Leonard Ratzlaff Mary Ritchie & Bill Johnston Dave & Michele Rumbold Dr. Sudhakar Sivapalan Donald & Jacqueline Smith Joyce Walton Gord Wiebe

friends SustainerS

($1,000-$1,749) Brad Armstrong Jocelyn Bahrey Jonathan Chia Jennifer Cleall John Day John & Ann Dea Imperial Equities Nickcole Fleshman Gift Funds A. R. Grynoch & P. V. Sing Mary-Lou Hamilton Sidney Hanson Caroline Howarth & John Adria Marcel Jacob Michael Kazda Jill Konkin Hilliard Macbeth Rod MacLean Denis & Ruth McGettigan Graham McLennan Fay Plomp James and Vivian Redmond Team TELUS Cares Timbers Consulting Inc. Linda Uniat Dr. Richard A. Wiznura

of

Edmonton Opera

John Oberg Wade O’Neill & Marcela Svobodova Dr. Hanne Ostergaard Fred & Helen Otto Dr. Edward & Geri Papp Wesley M. Pedruski Mary Phillips-Rickey Joan Pitfield Matthew Rose Edmond & Orla Ryan Shawn Russett Allison Seymour Doug & Devika Short Nance & Michael Smith Dr. Thomas Snyder Rosalind Sydie James & Karen Webb Joan Welch

GUARDIANS

($250-$499) Thomas Bradley Brenda Dale Tony de Jong Sterling Derk Dr. Jerrold & Lisa Diamond Curtis Dorfman Robert & Janet Fraser Marla Frketich John & Elaine Gill SUPPORTERS Gord Gilroy ($500-$999) Walter Goetz Beth Allard-Clough Darren Gray Cory Almquist June Greig Andree Aston David & Sandra Kraatz Enzo Barichello Lyn Krutzfeldt Margaret Bateman Libuse Kuzel Shawn Beamish Linda Medland-Davis Sheryl & Bob Bowhay Ronald & Carole Middleton Lorna Gawlinski Bryce Milliken Alice Harrison Kevin & Robyn Mott Jeremy Herbert Dr. George & Teresa Douglas & Dorothy Hollands Pemberton Pavel & Sylva Jelen Dwayne & Gaylene Wendy Kinsella Pohranychny Brandon Kot Jason Portas Dr. Zaheerali Lakhani Anne Pratt Neil & Jean Lund Barbara Prodor Kelly MacFarlane & Tom Redl Christopher Mackay Trevor Robertson Jeremy Main Carolynne E. Ross Devon J. Mark & Shauna Scott Allen Vander Well Gerry & Barbara Sinn Colleen McKenna Edward Smith Irene Mertz Labonte Belinda Snow Shauna Miller & Pat & Jim Strong James Gillespie Dennis Todoruk & Terry Moroz Susan Stauffer Les Moss 12 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

William Tonn Frank Van Veen Mike & Mary Wood Tim Yakimec

Dr. Judith Hibberd Jennifer Hinnell Warner & Keith Warner Michael Hladun Donna Holowaychuk MEMBERS Gwen Horvath ($100-$249) Mike Hruska Bonny & Earl Hubert Lisa Allen Sheila L. Hughes Carmen Alton Brenda Inglis Sam Attia Erik & Franziska Jacobsen Diana M. Bacon Janet Jansen Janet Birchall David Jones Phyllis Bryant Joanne Burek & Lee Stickles Daniel Jurijew Ken Keenleyside Troy & Amara Carriere Adele Khulbe Kelly Carter & HaNeul Kim & John Yun Adriana Koziak Carter Debra King Petrea Chamney Shirley Kirkpatrick John P. Chang Kim & Jay Krushell Elisebeth Checkel Lorraine Kucey Donald Cherniawsky Doug & Joan Longley Cory Chisholm Lawrence Lyman Donald Chisholm Richard & Jean Lyne Chung Chu Lowell & Donna Lyseng Don A. Cimino Brenda MacDonald Janet M. Clark Louise MacGregor Mary Clonfero DeEtte Mack Roger & Carol Cohen William MacKay Joseph & Marta Collier Tim Crisall & Stefanie Ivan Cameron MacRae Steve & Kate Madsen Jennifer Dechaine Morris Maduro James & Gail DeFelice Sharon Marcus & Dan & Lorna Dennis Judah Busheikin Swarnamala Dharmaratne John & Cathleen Matthews John Dickey Joseph A. Matties Wendy Doughty & Patricia McCaig Jim Klingle Bryce McLellan Toby Dragland Juliet McMaster Frank & Muriel Dunnigan Zoltan & Brigitte Meszoly Tim Eckert Janet Millar Christina Elliot Laquita Mitchell Martin & Jacqueline Elton E. W. Gauk & Julianna Nagy Tom & Heather Etsell Gregory Nakatsui Alfred & Coleen Falk Karea Naylor Luba Feduschak Kathleen Ness Angela Fialkov Cindy Neufeld Lois A. Field Kelly Palmer Deanna Finnman Kun Park Amy Fraser Jennifer Parker Margaret J. Friedman Sharon Pawlyk Keith Garner Iris Perry Gerda Goetz Carlie Persson Charles & Ann Grant Kyle Powell Ted Greer Sonja and David Powley Brenda Gross Gregory Preston Debby Hagen Sandeep Randhawa Marylee Hansen Carlos Raposo & R & Barbara Henderson Judy Strachan Lesley Heppleston

Eugene & Jeanne Ratsoy Sharla & Dorian Rauschning Todd Reade Yvonne Rekken Jordan Rice Clayton Rodney Hilary Rose Lesly Round Eugene J. Rudnisky Marea Ruggles Tom & Bev Sawyer Michael L. Schafer Thomas Schuelke Caroline Smith Ian & Irene Sneddon Nicholas & Charlotte Spillios Alison & Richard Starke Megan Stock Jean Sult Sarah Taylor Louis Te Marc Thauvette Kaitlyn Theroux Glen & Jacqueline Thoman Elizabeth Turnbull Alyson Turnerd Cheryl Lee Ulledal Dennis Vance Terry & Michelle Veeman Trudy Velichka Shawna Vogel Hon. Allan H. Wachowich Michael Walters John Wanchulak Lorrill Waschuk Cristina Weiheimer Joshua Wintonyk Andrea Wheaton James Wolfli & Annika Nordhagen Alyssa Wynnychuk Carla Wyntrykush Noel Xavier Serene Yau David M. Yee Marian Zaharia Gerhard & Inge Zmatlo

In honor of

In Memory of

Dianne Kipnes Barry James Marshall & Debby Shoctor

Orville Chubb Lisa Allen & Christian Gordon Patricia McCaig Marea & James Ruggles

Mary LeMessurier The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation

Peter Caffaro Arliss Miller Sir Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler

Morley Workun William Cherniawsky Sue Currie Michael Day & Marieke Kortbeek John Dickey Robert & Janet Fraser Joan & Able Goldstein Cairine Miner Michael Moschopedis & Bonnie Moschopedis Barry & Maureen Schloss Alyson Turner

Sean Livingstone Merle Harris Aline Pratch Pratch Family Foundation Eira Spaner The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation

Sincere thanks go to those individuals who, through their gifts, have demonstrated their belief in making opera a vital part of our cultural community. To donate or for additional information, please call Gordana Bosiocic at 780.996.2744 or email gordana.bosiocic@edmontonopera.com.

Only 2018/19 season donations and/or pledges processed up to March 5, 2019, are listed. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our donor information.

If we have made an error or omission, please call Gordana Bosiocic at 780.996.2744. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Although space limitations allow us to list only charitable contributions of $100 or more, we gratefully acknowledge all donations. Each gift, regardless of size, helps to make Edmonton Opera performances possible. Thank you!

FRIENDS OF THE OPERA

benefits

MEMBER

guardian

SUPPORTER

SUSTAINER

BENEFACTOR

PATRON

LEADER

$100+

$250+

$500+

$1,000+

$1,750+

$3,000+

$5,000-$10,000

Tax receipt Acknowledgment in Intermezzo magazine Poster from our current season (upon request)

• •

CD of a classic opera recording (upon request) Exclusive VIP event (per season) Invitation for two to each dress rehearsal and VIP reception Two tickets at 30% off for each mainstage production Two invitations to the exclusive VIP Lounge VIP courtesy Jubilee parking during performances Tour of the Opera Centre Two complimentary Opera Brunch tickets Exclusive invitation to rehearsals

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

• • •

• • • •

• • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Edmonton Opera’s Director’s Circle (donations of $1,750 or more) is our way of providing special recognition to our generous individual donors for their outstanding and sustained annual support. Director’s Circle members enjoy a number of exclusive opportunities throughout the season, to enhance their overall operatic experience. Please contact Gordana Bosiocic, Event Manager and Donor Relations, at gordana.bosiocic@edmontonopera.com or 780.996.2744 for more information about becoming a DC member.

The Sustainability Fund is comprised of dedicated individuals, corporations and foundations who have committed to a five-year, $10,000-per-year contribution, ensuring the sustainable future of Edmonton Opera. For more information about Sustainability Fund experiences and commitments, please contact Gwen Horvath, Director of Fund Development, at gwen.horvath@edmontonopera.com or 780.288.2510.

COUNT ORY 13

Getting you closer to your happy place. atb.com/community

Aria Legacy

Help Edmonton Opera Sing Forever Edmonton Opera creates award-winning and compelling art, and strives to keep that art accessible for the Edmonton community. Aria Legacy is your opportunity to share that dream in a focused and personal way, with a gift to our endowment program that will last into perpetuity. Endowment gifts of any size are appreciated.

For more information on how you can help sustain Edmonton Opera for generations to come, please call the donor services line at 780.996.2744.

Edmonton Opera

endowment funds

Edmonton Opera applauds the following visionaries for contributing to or establishing a legacy of support for the future of opera in our community. Many of these contributions have been matched by the Canada Cultural Investment Fund.

Edmonton Opera’s Endowment Funds Sam & Sonia Azer Family Fund Jim & Sharon Brown Fund Canada Cultural Investment Fund Dr. David Cook Fund for Edmonton Opera Edmonton Opera Endowment Trust Fund Edmonton Opera Staff Contributions Fund

Andy & Marianne Elder Fund Filipkowski Fund Frederic & Alma Gojmerac Family Fund Irving Guttman Opera Endowment Fund Tom Hall Opera Chorus Fund The Dianne and Irving Kipnes Opera Fund Oline & Roderick Markine Family Fund Naqvi Family Fund

John & Barbara Poole Family Fund Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler Family Fund Russell & Dwight Purdy Memorial Fund Arnold & Grace Rumbold Fund Otto & Elfi Werner Fund Bill & Paulette Winter Fund Ralph & Gay Young Fund

In Memory of Howard Irving: J.E. Cote Richard Fraser Larry Judge John Karvellas Alec & Irene Murray Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler In Memory of Oline Markine: Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler

Endowment Donors & Aria Legacy Members Kris Aasen Tricia Abbott Darlene Acton Peter & Barbara Allen Anonymous (2) Rebecca Anderson Bill & Dorothy Astle Sam & Sonia Azer Enzo Barichello Joanne Beaton Garner Beggs Alan & Alice Bell Bennett Jones Robert Bessette Danisha Bhaloo Douglas & Sheila Bingham Larrie & Eleanor Boddy Jelena Bojic Dr. Grace Bokenfohr Gordana Bosiocic Katherine Braun Greg Brown Jennifer Brown Joyce Buchwald F. Calder John Cameron David & Carol Cass Marian W. Clarke Mary Teresa Clonfero Erin Clyde Richard S. Cook Cameron Development Corporation Montana Craft John & Ann Dea

Brian Deedrick Laurel Deedrick-Mayne Glenda Dennis Betty Lou Docherty Maggie Dower Marianne & Andy Elder June Emery Russell Farmer Ivan & Ksenia Fedyna Deanna Finnman Laura Fitzgerald Karin Fodor Hans & Susanne Forbrich Richard Gain Sandra Gajic Katie Gallin Barbara Gitzel Fred & Alma Gojmerac Karen Good Mikael Gustafsson Gabor Gyenes & Erika Mullner Phillip & Virginia Halloran Alex J. Hamilton Mary-Lou Hamilton Alison Hardy PenĂŠlope Haro-Aranda Louise Hayes Brian & Jeanne Hetherington Mark & Nancy Heule Jennifer Hinnell Warner & Keith Warner Andrew Hladyshevsky Karen & Pam Hofmann

John & Susan Hokanson Douglas & Dorothy Hollands Jill Hoogewoonink Nick Horobec Caroline Howarth & John Adria Gwen Horvath W.H. Hurlburt Lauren Hyatt Brenda Inglis Jeffrey Jansen Laurence Jewell Bill Johnston Robert & Erika Juthner-Krtschan Ken Keenleyside Madison Kerr Daniel & Millie Kim HaNeul Kim & John Yun Debra King The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation Donna Kittle Betty Kolodziej Juri & Helle Kraav Rohan Kulkarni Megan Kumpula Libuse Kuzel Christine Kyriakides Shelagh Lam Tara-Lee LaRose Florence Lede Mary LeMessurier Stephen & Day LePoole

Kendra Litwin Franklin C. Loehde Constantino & Barbara Loutas Brenda MacDonald Judy & Stuart MacKay Amanda MacRae Cameron MacRae Joanne Madeley Bertrand Malo Greg & Patrece Maluzynsky Stephen & Lynn Mandel Andrae Marchak Devon J. Mark & Allen Vander Well Roderick & Oline Markine Peggy & John Marko Alan Mather Julian Mayne Jeff McAlpine Jeff McCune Rod & Heleen McLeod Bob & Bev McNally Hugh McPhail & Yolanda Van Wachem Grace Megli-Turner Axel Meisen Mickey Melnyk Laurie Mereu Arliss Miller Victoria Modine Valorie Morgan Kevin & Robyn Mott Kyle & Colleen Murray E.W. Gauk & Julianna Nagy

Dr. Thomas & Melanie Nakatsui John Neilson Jack & Esther Ondrack Dr. Edward & Geri Papp Keir Pearson Wesley M. Pedruski Mary Phillips-Rickey Patti Pon Barbara Poole Dr. Clarence H. Preitz Francis Price Protostatix Engineering Consultants Leonard Ratzlaff David Rayner Ingrid Raypold Reynolds Mirth Richards & Farmer LLP Clayton Rodney & Raymond Cameron Daniel Rojek Analee Roman Hilary & Robert Rose Arnold & Grace Rumbold Celyne Runzer Barry Schloss & Maureen Hemingway-Schloss Naomi Schmold & Craig Corbett Richard Schulz Don Scott Kelly Sheard Gabe & Connie Shelley Richard Sims

Michael & Nance Smith Katie Soles Elaine Solez Sheri Somerville Michael Spassov Darren Staten Ivan Steiner Catherine Szabo Team TELUS Cares Lauren Tenney Michael & Elizabeth Thain Karen Trace Hon. Marguerite Trussler David Lorne Tyrell Chris & Vivian Varvis Stella Varvis The Watson Family Fund Leslie Watson Angus Watt Cristina Weiheimer Joan Welch Brianna Wells Ed Wiebe & Marcia Johnson William F. Lede Family Foundation Robert A. Wilson Adrienne E. Wong Noel Xavier Tim Yakimec Serene Yau Laura Young Stacy Young Gerhard & Inge Zmatlo Vonnie Zupan COUNT ORY 15

GOOD { WISHES } COME TO THOSE WHO:  WAIT  WATCH  TAKE THE LEAD THE {FULL} LIFE AWAITS TOUCHMARK AT WEDGEWOOD

FULL-SERVICE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY EDMONTON, AB • 780-809-3241 • TOUCHMARKEDMONTON.COM 1919747 © Touchmark, LLC, all rights reserved

Edmonton Opera presents

COUNT ORY April 6, 9 & 12, 2019 Music by Gioachino Rossini Born Feb. 29, 1792, in Pesaro, Italy, Gioachino Rossini grew up in a musical family — his father was a horn player and sometimes professor at the Academia Filharmonica,

while his mother actively pursued her operatic career when her husband was jailed for his political convictions.

Rossini wrote nearly 40 operas throughout his career, as well as sacred music, chamber music and cantatas. His composing years span both the classical era and the Romantic period, trends that are reflected in his early and later compositions. At the age of 14, he was accepted into the Academia Filharmonica, where he proved to be a good accompanist and repetiteur. It was at the Academia that he met two influential singers: Velluti, a castrato and symbolic of the old traditions of opera, and Isabella Colbran, a soprano who would become his wife. After she died in 1845, Rossini married Olympia

Pelissier in 1846.

Rossini’s work is considered a bridge between the old guard of opera and paving the way for composers such as Wagner, Verdi and Mayerbeer. Rossini thoroughly enjoyed Mozart’s work, earning the nickname “the Italian Mozart,” but did not think much of Wagner (a feeling that was mutual, although Wagner was apparently quite

impressed by Rossini’s final opera, Guillaume Tell).

Rossini left the Academia Filharmonica early and accepted work at

the Teatro San Moise à Venice, where he wrote four farse (translating literally to ‘farce’, these were low-budget, chorus-less, 80-minute operas). This exercise allowed him to develop an effective, actionpacked structure for his full-length comedies. He was also one of the first composers to write out ornamentation, since bel canto singers were known to take liberties and would render the piece an entirely different composition with their interpretation.

Although his first two-act opera caused some problems with the censors, he soon became a successful composer in Milan, earning military deferment and name recognition. He was especially prolific after signing a contract with Teatro San Carlo, when he produced 18 operas in seven years.

Rossini was soon receiving offers from all over Europe and chose to settle in Paris — a city he loved, with exposure to music from all over the continent and the ability to train some of the finest singers of the day. Eventually, he was replaced by Verdi and Puccini, although his work was re-popularized in the mid and late-20th century.

Rossini died at the age of 76, in Paris, France. He left money to his hometown of Pesaro, and a music conservatory was built there, dedicated to the genius Italian composer.

Libretto by Eugène Scribe and Charles-Gaspard Delestre-Poirson Premiere: August 20, 1828, Paris Conductor Director Scenery Designer Costume Designer Lighting Designer Repetiteur/Chorusmaster

Gordon Gerrard Brian Deedrick Camellia Koo Deanna Finnman Narda McCarroll Peter Dala

The Cast Count Ory Countess Adele Isolier Ragonde Alice Raimbaud Governor, Tutor to Ory Young Nobleman

John Tessier Caitlin Wood Sarah Mesko Megan Latham Whitney Sloan Alexander Dobson Stephen Hegedus Adam Fisher

Understudies Count Ory Isolier Understudy Coach

Asitha Tennekoon Stephanie Tritchew Leanne Regehr

with members of the Edmonton Opera Chorus & Supers and The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager Apprentice Stage Manager Apprentice Stage Manager

Ha Neul Kim Anna Davidson Erin Valentine Linda Mullen Hunter Luth

There will be a 20-minute intermission after Act 1.

The performance is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes in duration, including intermission.

Edmonton Opera is a professional company operating within the jurisdiction of the Canadian Actors’ Equity Association.

Edmonton Opera is a member of the Professional Opera Companies of Canada and Opera America.

COUNT ORY 17

Brief synopsis While all the men in town are away at war, notorious skirt-chaser Count Ory stays back and decides to make a move on Countess Adele. Unfortunately for him, Adele is in love with Ory’s page Isolier. Count Ory adopts one disguise after another to seduce Adele, but he ultimately gets caught and is forced to make a run for it.

SYNOPSIS Act I

Act II

Most of the men in town have left for the Holy Land to fight in

The evening is terribly stormy and all

the Crusades. The women eagerly await their return, all staying together in the castle. Among these women are Countess Adele and her companion Ragonde.

Count Ory has his eyes on Adele, and decides to make a move on her while the men are away. He disguises himself as a hermit. His friend Raimbaud announces that the hermit will be offering relationship advice to those who seek it. The women, who are lonely in the castle, visit the hermit and get his blessings.

Ragonde tells the hermit that Countess Adele is very sad and afflicted by heartache. She then informs the hermit that Adele will come to him shortly, which gets Count Ory very excited. Ory’s page Isolier arrives along with his tutor. Isolier does not recognize the Count in his disguise, but the tutor knows something is up, especially since they have been on the hunt for Ory. He leaves to get backup.

While the tutor is away, Isolier confesses to the hermit that he is in love with Countess Adele. The hermit tells Isolier about a plan to enter the castle disguised as a pilgrim. Count Ory, of course, intends to use this plan to get closer to Adele.

Adele arrives and asks the hermit for advice, and is surprised to hear his recommendation. He tells Adele to have an affair.

She reveals that she has feelings for Isolier, but the hermit immediately warns her to stay away from the page. Adele invites the hermit back to her castle, thankful for his advice. As they make their way inside, the tutor returns with backup and declares that the hermit is a fraud, and is in fact Count Ory in disguise. Everyone is shocked.

the women are inside the castle. Suddenly, they hear screams from outside the castle. It appears to be a group of pilgrim nuns who are trying to escape the storm. Adele asks them to be let in, and when they enter, the nuns announce that they were being chased

by Count Ory. Little do the women know, the nuns are actually Count Ory and his men in disguise.

Ory gets Adele alone and thanks her for welcoming them into the castle. Adele leaves to have a meal prepared for the guests. Elsewhere in the castle, Raimbaud stumbles into the wine cellar. All the men get copiously drunk and become very rowdy.

Isolier realizes what Count Ory is up to and reveals the information to Adele. Together, they decide to trick Ory in return.

It is announced that the men will return that very night, much earlier than expected. Both Isolier and Count Ory hide in Adele’s bedroom in the dark. As Ory tries to take advantage of the night and kiss Adele, Isolier makes sure he is thwarted. Before long, trumpets signal the arrival of the men, and Count Ory is caught in the act.

He makes a run for it.

They receive news that the men will be home from battle in two days.

Count Ory knows he must act fast to get what he wants.

50/50 tickets can be purchased in the main lobby and on the first balcony prior to the performance and during intermission.

The winning ticket will be displayed at the end of the performance at the Jubilee exit doors. Thank you for your support of the arts in Edmonton!

Those attending the Friday night performance are invited to take home one of the floral arrangements courtesy of Hole’s Greenhouses, in exchange for a donation to the Edmonton Opera. Please visit the main lobby on Friday if interested.

Camcor

Renovation Experts

Kitchens • Basements • Additions • Bath & Spas

Let’s get started on your dream project. Call Today.

COUNT ORY 19

“It’s one grand and glorious cartoon!” program notes Edmonton audiences may know Rossini

to Reims, which later became the musical basis for Count Ory. This ambitious piece featured fourteen soloists and a delightfully farcical plot about a band of quirky characters on their way to the coronation of Charles X. Despite the opera’s huge success, Rossini only allowed four performances before pulling it from the stage.

“For the life of me, I don’t understand why Le comte Ory isn’t the most produced of all Rossini operas,” says Brian Deedrick, director of this Western Canadian premiere. “It’s one grand and glorious cartoon! From the moment the curtain goes up, you sort of know that everything is going to turn out just fine in the end, which allows you to sit back and let the music, the story, the characters, and the silliness wash over you.”

Rossini had a lot to learn from the French operatic tradition, including their desire for a strong, poetic libretto and using the chorus to great effect. The language itself was very differently sung, which meant the signature rapid vocal gymnastics you would see in Barber had to evolve to suit French declamation.

as the genius behind blockbuster comic operas like The Barber of Seville and Cinderella, but his final comedy Count Ory (or Le comte Ory in French) is only now gaining popularity at opera houses across the world.

ROSSINI’S ROAD TO PARIS By the time 31-year-old Rossini arrived in Paris, all of Europe was already familiar with his work. The runaway success of Barber, which he composed at the age of 26, and several other productions had established him as the golden boy of opera.

Within a few short years of performing in Italy, Rossini was ready to move on to different audiences and enjoyed the royal treatment he received in Vienna, Paris, and London. He even had a meeting with the elusive Beethoven in Vienna, during which the legendary composer famously declared that Rossini’s talent was not suited for serious opera, and that he should do more operas like Barber.

Rossini’s personality and charisma were in high demand in England, perhaps even more so than his music. He made the most of his British residency, building up an enviable fortune by charging for house visits to aristocrats.

The French had been eyeing Rossini for some time, but seeing his popularity in England, they acted quickly and offered him a very lucrative contract. By 1824, Rossini took up residence in Paris, where he would eventually retire.

COMPOSING IN FRENCH As part of his contract, Rossini had to compose an opera to celebrate the coronation of Charles X in 1825. He wrote his final Italian opera for the occasion, Il viaggio a Reims or The Journey

Rossini spent a few years trying to absorb and adjust to the style of music in Paris, reworking two of his previous operas into French before he embarked on his first full-length French opera. It seems he took Beethoven’s advice to heart and stuck to what he knew best — comedy. He borrowed almost half of the score from Il viaggio a Reims and brought on Eugène Scribe, a celebrated French playwright, to provide the libretto. Count Ory premiered in 1828 and was instantly acclaimed as a masterpiece.

A RAUCOUS COMEDY The plot of Count Ory is based on a medieval ballad, in which a group of knights break into a convent. This was turned into a one-act play by Scribe and Charles-Gaspard Delestre-Poirson about the shameless, skirtchasing Count Ory and his knights who try to enter a convent but are unsuccessful in doing so. Under Rossini’s direction, the story evolved to include a love triangle, several mistaken identities, naughty nuns, and an unforgettable musical threesome.

A major highlight of the opera is the Act One finale, right after Count Ory has been exposed as a liar in front of the entire crowd. Originally written for fourteen voices in Il viaggio a Reims, Rossini reduced it down to seven voices that initially sing a cappella, rising into a rapidly bubbling orchestral and vocal storm.

The show stopper in Count Ory, however, is the Act Two trio between the Count, his page Isolier, and Countess Adele. As Count Ory (dressed as a nun) enters Adele’s bedroom at night, expecting to get lucky, he is foiled by his own page (and Adele’s lover) Isolier. Words are really not enough to describe the hilarity and musical excellence of this scene, but it truly captures the essence of Rossini’s genius.

heritage amphitheatre hawrelak park

freewillshakespeare.com

@freewillplayers

UNDER 40?

Continue your love affair with opera

Save an extra 20% on all season ticket packages with our no-fee Encore program!

edmontonopera.com/encore 22 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Cul-de-sac

April 13-August 18 Art Gallery of Alberta

youraga.ca | 780.422.6223

The Empress & The Prime Minister April 18-May 5

Theatre Network theatrenetwork.ca | 780.453.2440

The Tempest April 20-May 12 Citadel Theatre

citadeltheatre.com | 780.425.1820

Good Friday at the Winspear April 24 Winspear Centre

Pro Coro Canada procoro.ca | 780.420.1247

Bernstein and Falla April 26 & 27

Edmonton Symphony Orchestra winspearcentre.com | 780.428.1414

A Man Draws a Bird April 30-May 11

Fringe Theatre fringetheatre.ca | 780.409.1910

Now I Know May 3-5 Allard Hall

Ballet Edmonton balletedmonton.ca

The Fiddle & the Drum

May 9-11 Jubilee Auditorium

Alberta Ballet albertaballet.com | 780.428.6839

Opera Nuova Festival June 14-30

operanuova.ca | 780.487.4844

COUNT ORY 23

VOLVO XC90

© 2019 Volvo Car Canada Ltd. Always remember to wear your seat belt. Visit volvocars.ca.

VOLVO XC60

VolvO OF EDMONTON

VOLVO XC40

Ellerslie Road & 101 Street

780-486-5100 volvoedmonton.com

the most delicious destination in the Canadian Rockies

Reservation: 1.800.661.1586 www.posthotel.com

Artists’

PROFILES GORDON GERRARD Conductor

Deanna Finnman Costume Designer

Gordon Gerrard is a respected figure in the new generation of Canadian musicians. After an international search, he was appointed the Music Director of the Regina Symphony Orchestra beginning in the 2016-2017 season. For four seasons Gordon held the positions of Resident Conductor and Repetiteur for Calgary Opera, where he led productions of La bohème, Lakmé, Die Fledermaus, and the Canadian premiere of Mark Adamo’s Little Women. He was invited back to help launch Calgary Opera’s summer opera festival Opera in the Village with productions of Candide and The Pirates of Penzance. In December 2015, Gordon made his debut with The National Ballet of Canada and in August 2016, his European debut conducting Tosca for Kammeroper Schloss Rheinsberg in Rheinsberg, Germany.

Deanna’s 18-year association with Edmonton Opera as head of the wardrobe department and resident costume designer has included costume design credits for Don Giovanni, HMS Pinafore, Elektra, Cinderella, Carmen, The Magic Flute, Lakmé, Pirates of Penzance and Fidelio. Her designs for Edmonton Opera’s South Pacific, The Emperor of Atlantis and The Mikado have earned Sterling Awards for best costume design. Most recently she designed costumes for Edmonton Opera’s production of Hansel & Gretel.

BRIAN DEEDRICK

Narda is a Calgary based Set, Costume and Lighting designer. Recent favourite designs include: Brontë: The World Without (Stratford Festival); Blow Wind, High Water (Theatre Calgary); Vigilante (Catalyst Theatre); Peter and the Starcatcher, Venus in Fur, A Few Good Men (Citadel Theatre); To the Light, Gracie, Cockroach, The Circle, Red, Mary’s Wedding (Alberta Theatre Projects); The Mikado (Calgary Opera); Sweeney Todd, Turn of the Screw (Vertigo Theatre). Narda designed the costumes for The Freewill Shakespeare Festival for 16 seasons. She also designed the costumes for the feature film Cut Bank. Visit narda.ca to see images of her work.

Director

Delighted to be coming “home” to Edmonton Opera under any circumstances, Brian’s pleasure is magnified by this amazing opportunity to at last direct one of his three bucket list operas...two to go. The past year has included productions of La fille du régiment in Honolulu, Candide in Salt Lake City, Into The Woods for Opera Nuova, Mozart’s Impresario, Gianni Schicchi and Lucia di Lammermoor for Knoxville Opera in Tennessee, and Oh! Christmas Tree as part of Theatre Network’s Roxy Performance Series. Upcoming: Harvey for Edmonton’s Players de Novo, Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Opera Nuova, and a highly-anticipated return to a summer of guiding in Berlin.

Camellia Koo Scenery Designer

Camellia has collaborated with Edmonton Opera on The Tales of Hoffmann, Maria Stuarda, Carmen, Hansel & Gretel and HMS Pinafore. Other opera collaborations include Against the Grain, Boston Lyric Opera, Canadian Opera Company, Helikon Opera (Moscow), Pacific Opera Victoria, and Tapestry New Opera.

Theatre collaborations include the Shaw Festival, Stratford Festival, and the National Arts Centre. Camellia has received six Dora Mavor Moore Awards, a Chalmers Award grant, 2016 Virginia and Myrtle Cooper Award for Costume Design and finalist for the 2018 Siminovitch Prize.

Upcoming projects: Man and Superman (Shaw), The Mahabharata (Why Not/Shaw Festival), and La Bohème (Santa Fe Opera).

NARDA McCARROLL Lighting Designer

Peter Dala

Repetiteur & Chorusmaster Peter Dala began his conducting career 30 years ago with the Basel Ballet.

He conducted for seven years at the Hungarian State Opera and the National Ballet of Hungary. As Edmonton Opera’s chorusmaster from 1996 to present and resident conductor from 2001 to present, he prepared the chorus for roughly 50 operas, has played over 50 operas as repetiteur and has conducted over 30 operas. In 2001 he began his affiliation with Alberta Ballet and was named music director in 2005. He has conducted over 40 different productions for them.

COUNT ORY 27

Variety for living.

Endless fixtures and finishes to choose from.

We’re offering 20% off upgrades for single family and duplex homes.

For a limited time only. Visit our show homes for details.

L ANDMARK HOMES.C A

Hit the Right Note, Every Time Good business happens when you work with a advisor who listens to your needs. At MNP, we work closely with a wide range of businesses in every sector to compose industry-specific business solutions that hit the right note, every time.

MNP is proud to support our community and sponsor the Edmonton Opera.

Contact Dustin Sundby, Regional Managing Partner, at 780.451.4406 or dustin.sundby@mnp.ca

28 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Artists’

PROFILES John Tessier Count Ory

Juno Award-winning artist John Tessier has worked with many of the most notable conductors and stage directors of our day. Appearances of the recent past and near future include performances at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, Wiener Staatsoper, Carnegie Hall, Teatro Colon, Oper Frankfurt, Grand Théâtre de Genève, English National Opera, Washington National Opera, Seattle Opera, the New York Philharmonic, Wiener Musikverein, National Symphony Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra, Cleveland Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Orchestre National de Lyon, Ensemble Orchestral de Paris, and the Toronto Symphony. Equally comfortable in the genres of opera, oratorio and recital, Mr. Tessier is also an associate professor at the University of Alberta. His discography includes recordings on the Decca, Naxos, Telarc, BIS, Challenge Records and Dorian labels.

Caitlin Wood Countess Adele

Alberta-born soprano Caitlin Wood showed “great comic flair” as Susanna in Vancouver Opera Festival’s The Marriage of Figaro. Caitlin portrayed Ava in City Opera Vancouver’s world premiere of Marie Clements/Brian Current’s powerful Missing, showing “exquisite vulnerability” and recently debuted as Adele in Toronto Operetta Theatre’s production of Die Fledermaus. Caitlin’s concert performances this season include guest appearances in Mozart’s Requiem with Windsor Symphony Orchestra and Carmina Burana with Ottawa Choral Society. Caitlin is thrilled to add Cunegonde in Candide to her repertoire, and to reprise Susanna in The Marriage of Figaro, both in Edmonton Opera’s exciting 2019/20 season.

Sarah Mesko Isolier

Praised by The Washington Post for her “consistently beautiful sound,” American mezzosoprano Sarah Mesko is rapidly gaining attention for her “rich mezzo soprano” voice and musicality.

In the 2018-19 season, Ms. Mesko returned to the Metropolitan Opera following her successful performance of Arsace in Semiramide to sing the role of Mercédès in Carmen conducted by Omer Meir Welber. She also makes her Canadian debut as Isolier in Le comte Ory with Edmonton Opera and Opera Theatre of Saint Louis debut as Ottavia in The Coronation of Poppea. In concert she performed Handel’s Messiah at the United States Naval Academy and premiered The Flowers of Evil with Mercury Houston.

Megan Latham Ragonde

From British Columbia, mezzo-soprano Megan Latham has appeared with major opera companies and symphony orchestras across Canada in a wide range of repertoire. During the 2018/2019 season Megan debuted for Opéra de Québec in Die Zauberflöte, appeared as Flora in La traviata for Pacific Opera Victoria, as Gertrude in Roméo et Juliette in Calgary and returns to Edmonton Opera for her role debut as Ragonde in Le comte Ory. She has been featured by the Canadian Opera Company, the Victoria, Kitchener-Waterloo and Regina symphonies, and the Grand Philharmonic Choir. Additional credits include the World Premieres of Stickboy and Dark Sisters for Vancouver Opera and Pelleas et Melisande for Against the Grain Theatre.

Whitney Sloan Alice

Edmonton soprano Whitney Leigh Sloan was seen most recently as Zerlina in Edmonton Opera’s production of Don Giovanni. Previous seasons with Edmonton Opera have included the role of Second Maid in Strauss’ Elektra and of Liù (cover) in Turandot. Whitney has been fortunate to perform at home in feature performances with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, the WindRose Trio, Edmonton Youth Orchestra, Orchestra Borealis and Cité Francophone. This current season includes the role of Alice in Edmonton Opera’s production of Le comte Ory as well as multiple engagements with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra, the highlight of these being the performance of four songs by Finnish composer Jean Sibelius, orchestrated by Edmonton composer John Estacio.

Alexander Dobson Raimbaud

British-Canadian baritone Alexander Dobson has been praised for his musical and dramatic artistry on both opera and concert stages. He was lauded for his “gripping embodiment of Wozzeck” (Journal Voir) in a production with Théâtre du Nouveau Monde and Orchestre Métropolitain, conducted by Yannick Nézet-Séguin.

This season’s operatic highlights include the role of Betteron in Carlise Floyd’s Prince of Players and the Canadian premiere of Rudolf Komorous’ The Mute and the Canary with Turning Point Ensemble. In concert, Dobson performs Haydn’s Seasons with Cleveland Orchestra, Messiah with Symphony Nova Scotia and St. Thomas Church in New York, Durufle’s Requiem with the Bach Society of St. Louis, and Bizet’s Carmen in concert with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony.

COUNT ORY 29

SUMMER OPERA CAMP MOZART MAGIC! July 15–19, 2019 • 9 am–4 pm Grades 4–6 • $250 per child Facilitated by Kate Ryan and featuring local artists Join us on a five-day creative adventure exploring Mozart’s fantasy epic The Magic Flute!

Activities include: music, acting, scenic painting, costume design, prop building and more!

Register online: edmontonopera.com/operacamp

LET’S GET LOUD FOR MENTAL HEALTH. May 4th, 2019 The Winspear Centre for Music Featuring Michael Landsberg Founder, #SickNotWeak Ticket info at johncameron.com 30 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Artists’

PROFILES Stephen Hegedus Governor, Tutor to Ory

Stephen Hegedus is that rarest of bass-baritones, equally at home in the works of Puccini and Donizetti as well as those of Bach and Mozart. His busy 2018-2019 schedule includes Leporello in Don Giovanni for Manitoba Opera, Bach’s Magnificat for I Musici de Montréal, Messiah for the Vancouver Chamber Choir and Edmonton Symphony and Haydn’s Missa in tempore belli for the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir. He recently appeared for Vancouver Opera as Dulcamara in L’elisir d’amore and looks forward to a repeat of Dulcamara in Chengdu China and Leporello in Don Giovanni for Opera Atelier. Concert highlights include Bach’s Mass in B Minor at Carnegie Hall and Messiah with the Seattle Symphony.

Adam Fisher

Young Nobleman Tenor Adam Fisher is firmly established as one of Canada’s leading musical artists, known for his charismatic stage presence in a wide range of repertoire, from Messiah to Jesus Christ, Superstar.

A native of White Rock, B.C., Adam has charmed audiences in Salute to Vienna concerts in North America and created the role of Edward in the world premiere of Estacio’s Ours with Opera on the Avalon. Adam recently sang the role of Rodolfo in Mercury Opera’s modernized La bohème, Eisenstein in Toronto Operetta Theatre’s Die Fledermaus and is excited to sing the title role of Candide with Edmonton Opera in 2020.

Leanne Regehr Understudy Coach

Pianist Leanne Regehr earned a Doctor of Music degree in piano performance from Northwestern University and is currently based in Edmonton, where she serves on the faculties of the University of Alberta and the King’s University. Leanne has been engaged as a repetiteur with Shreveport Opera, Mercury Opera and Edmonton Opera. Her dedication to the development of young singers has been recognized through her work as a faculty member with Opera Nuova, as a staff pianist for Sherrill Milnes’ VOICExperience Program in Florida, and as a coaching fellow at the Aspen Music Festival. Leanne enjoys her freelance career as a soloist, vocal coach, recital partner and adjudicator.

Asitha Tennekoon Count Ory understudy

Sri Lankan tenor Asitha Tennekoon is a Graduate of Jacobs School of Music, Indiana University and Glenn Gould School of Music, and has already established himself as a singer of remarkable versatility. Concert highlights for Asitha this season include Evangelist in Bach’s St. John Passion with Ottawa Choral Society and Messiah with Elmer Iseler Singers. Asitha recently made his debut with Opera de Montreal in Champion, and has sung leading roles with Opera Bouffe du Quebec, and Washington’s Opera Lafayette. This season, Asitha sings in the world premiere of Dean Burry/Yvette Nolans’s Shanawdithit, a co-production with Tapestry Opera/Opera on the Avalon.

PF Custom Countertops 10417 - 174 Street, Edmonton, AB T5S 1H1 P: (780) 484-0831 • F: (780) 486-0698 E: ask_us@PFCustomCountertops.com www.PFCustomCountertops.com

COUNT ORY 31

Celebrate summer with live music, hors d’oeuvres & wine in a spectacular outdoor setting!

University of Alberta Botanic Garden Friday, July 5, 2019 • Gates open at 6pm Adult $59 • Child (12 & under) $20 Your ticket includes: admission to the garden, performances & hors d’oeuvres

Enjoy performances featuring opera and musical theatre favourites, accompanied by wine and hors d’oeuvres.

Discover the new Aga Khan Garden, a sprawling 4.8-hectare garden that showcases gorgeous Islamic landscape architecture including fountains, ponds, and an amphitheatre.

Opera al Fresco sells out every year, so purchase your tickets today!

SPONSORED BY:

780.429.1000 • edmontonopera.com

Artists’

PROFILES Stephanie Tritchew Isolier understudy

Stephanie Tritchew recently appeared as Stéphano in Roméo et Juliette with Calgary Opera and made her Messiah debut with both the Belleville Choral Society and Chorus Niagara. Her season began with her performance in Tapestry Opera’s “Tapestry Briefs.”

Ms. Tritchew’s 2017-18 season included her Tapestry Opera debut as Birgitta in Bandits in The Valley, Vancouver Opera debut as The Friend in Requiem for a Lost Girl, and her Opera 5 debut as Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia. Other credits include Third Maid in Elektra (Edmonton Opera), The Aunt in Madame Butterfly (Opera Theatre of Saint Louis). Stephanie is a graduate of the Calgary Opera Emerging Artist program and the Yulanda M. Faris program at Vancouver Opera.

Ha Neul Kim Stage Manager

As a graduate of the University of Alberta’s technical theatre production program with a specialization in stage management, Ha Neul has worked at theatres and major special events across Canada. She is delighted to mark the 2018/19 season as her 17th with Edmonton Opera, taking over as Stage Manager in 2007. These past 17 years have been an incredible experience, being involved in over 40 productions and in the company’s artistic operations. Ha Neul also enjoys the opportunity to mentor Assistant Stage Managers and Apprentice Assistant Stage Managers for each EO production, and teaches a class in opera stage management at the University of Alberta.

Anna Davidson

Assistant Stage Manager Anna is thrilled to be back at Edmonton Opera this season. Recent Edmonton Opera credits include: Hansel & Gretel, Elektra, Cinderella (La Cenerentola), and Turandot as Assistant Stage Manager. She has worked as a stage manager or ASM for The Citadel Theatre, Northern Light Theatre, Shadow Theatre, Workshop West, Theatre Network, Concrete Theatre, and L’UniThéâtre. She is a graduate of the Theatre Production Program at MacEwan University and the Theatre Performance Program at Red Deer College.

Erin Valentine

Assistant Stage Manager After spending a week as a substitute ASM on last season’s Don Giovanni, Erin is thrilled to return to the Edmonton Opera. Recent work includes stage management of Inferno (Firefly Theatre & Circus), Pretty Goblins (Workshop West), The Romeo Initiative (SkirtsAfire Festival), Bat Boy: The Musical (Citadel Theatre Young Company), Jack and the Beanstalk (Alberta Opera), and Star Killing Machine (Broken Toys Theatre), as well as apprentice stage manager for Around the World in 80 Days (Globe Theatre), Peter and the Starcatcher and A Christmas Carol (Citadel Theatre). She has her BFA Stage Management from the University of Alberta.

COUNT ORY 33

Stewart Copeland’s featuring the silent film

In Concert MAY 24 & 25 • 7:30 PM

FEATURING THE DRUMMER FROM THE POLICE AND YOUR ESO

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO WARNER BROTHERS

WINSPEARCENTRE.COM/TICKETS

For advertising exposure in the next issue of Suggitt the Edmonton Opera Magazine,

PUBLISHERS

contact Barry Powis at 780.906.8846 or e-mail in_barry@telus.net

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

34 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Edmonton Opera chorus

and supers

Soprano

Mezzo

Tenor

Bass/baritone

Supernumeraries

Alison Turk Louise Ashdown Jillian Spotowski Krista Paton Nansee Hughes Lydia-Ann Levesque

Betty Kolodziej**** Seang Youn Choi* Joanne Linden Joyanne Rudiak Jill Hoogewoonink Colleen Iversen

Casper Seely Bob Gagnon Joseph Chambrinho* Dan Rowley** Allan Cabral de Sa Gavin Belik

Ivan Fedyna Scott McLeod Francis Price*** Martin Galba* Russ Farmer Justin Kautz

Mikhajlena Fedyna Markiyan Fedyna * Ten or more productions with EO ** Twenty-five or more productions *** Fifty or more productions **** Seventy-five or more productions

Edmonton Symphony orchestra Chief Conductor: Alexander Prior Conductor: Gordon Gerrard Violin 1

Viola

Oboe

tIMPANI

Eric Buchmann Virginie Gagne Joanna Ciapka-Sangster Aiyana Anderson-Howatt Neda Yamach Alison Zdunich Broderyck Olson Sylvia Chow

Clayton Leung Kerry Kavalo Rhonda Henshaw Jeannette Comeau

Lidia Khaner

Barry Nemish

clarinet

Percussion

Julianne Scott David Quinn

Brian Jones

bassoon Matthew Howatt

Orchestra Personnel Manager

horn

Eric Filpula

Allene Hackleman Donald Plumb

Librarian

Trumpet

ESO Production Staff

Violin 2 Dianne New Sarah Kim Heather Bergen Robert Hryciw Tatiana Warszynski Gabriele Thielmann-Vriend

cello Rafael Hoekman Meran Currie-Roberts Derek Gomez Victor Pipkin

bass Max Cardilli Andrew Lawrence

flute Elizabeth Faulkner

Frederic Payant

Bass Trombone

Aaron Christopher Hawn Jerrold Eilander Mike Patton

Chris Taylor

COUNT ORY 35

PLANNED GIVING

by SHELLY K. CHAMASCHUK It takes a lifetime to build up an estate, and yet it seems little time, in comparison, is spent to determine what should happen with an estate after passing. Everyone is encouraged to put a will in place to ensure that the distribution of their estate is properly planned.

A basic will can be done, leaving your estate to your family and those who matter to you. However, you may also wish to consider the ability to continue to give back to the community by leaving a charitable gift in your will. A charitable gift leaves money or other assets to those organizations which have given you joy, such as the opera. This would be such a wonderful legacy to you and a thoughtful way to give back on your way out.

There is also a significant tax benefit to charitable gifts.

W

hen you include Edmonton Opera in your estate plans, you provide a foundation for great opera in Edmonton to future generations.

If you wish to know more about giving to the opera, you are welcome to contact Gordana Bosiocic, Event Manager & Donor Relations, at gordana.bosiocic@edmontonopera.com or 780.996.2744.

Shelly K. Chamaschuk is a partner with the law firm of Reynolds Mirth Richards and Farmer LLP who practises in the area of estate planning. Shelly can be reached at schamaschuk@rmrf.com or 780.497.3364.

Celebrating 35 years Three decades of reliability and innovative solutions in subdivision servicing, project management, general contracting, sewer and water transmission mains, and all types of heavy equipment projects.

www.raywalt.ca Raywalt Construction is proud to be a sponsor of The Edmonton Opera

36 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

On Valentine’s Day, over 700 guests were treated to an evening of glamour and spectacle at the Edmonton Convention Centre for Edmonton Opera’s Annual Gala. This year’s fundraising gala featured performances by Ballet Edmonton, the Royal Canadian Artillery Band, Cantilon Children’s Choir and the Edmonton Opera Chorus & soloists.

Each performance was received with a warm standing ovation from our audience!

The Valentine’s Gala was hosted by Gala committee co-chairs Lisa and Marshall Sadd, with distinguished guests in attendance including the Honourable Lois Mitchell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, and Mayor Don Iveson.

We also hosted over 140 members of the Canadian military, Edmonton firefighters, Edmonton Police Service and the Emergency Medical Services through the generosity of our table sponsors.

We are so grateful to all the supporters and sponsors who help Edmonton Opera make the Gala a successful event each year!

MATCHING GIFT SPONSOR

DINNER SPONSOR

CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION SPONSOR

DESSERT SPONSOR

PHOTO BOOTH SPONSOR

Dr. Thomas & Melanie Nakatsui

PRIZE DRAW SPONSORS: BIRKS & HARRY ROSEN | WINE PROVIDED BY COLOR DE VINO

Donate Today!

Brain surgery to backyard, Stollery care gets kids there.

#StolleryBackyard stollerykids.com/inmybackyard

tu

A.C CKU

OM

ne in

4.9 9fm

@

CKUAR

ADIO

an rg d i i c o o a r Founded on 100 years of experience.

Nationally recognized for excellence, outstanding service and innovation.

Orchestrate a culinary masterpiece.

www.wittenlaw.com

COUNT ORY 39

MOZA RT

RIGOL E T T O

T HE M A RRIAGE OF F IG A RO

OCTOBER 19, 22 & 25, 2019

FEBRUARY 1, 4 & 7, 2020

WHO WILL HAVE THE LAST LAUGH?

EVERYONE’S FAVOURITE BARBER IS BACK, AND NOW HE’S TYING THE KNOT!

As the infamous court jester, Rigoletto earns a living by making fun of people’s misery. So when his enemies seek revenge, they take the one thing Rigoletto values most: his daughter Gilda. What follows is a harrowing tale of greed, corruption, and violence that ultimately turns Rigoletto’s own fate into a cruel joke.

Like every young couple, Figaro and Susanna had dreamed of their perfect wedding day. But their plans are thrown into chaos when Figaro’s boss, the Count, sets his sights on Susanna. Mozart’s upstairsdownstairs comedy is complete with mistaken identities, swinging spouses, and some of the most recognizable music ever written!

Baritone James Westman, acclaimed by critics and audiences as Germont in La Traviata, sings the title role in Verdi’s high-stakes revenge thriller.

Don’t miss this spectacular production that premiered at Vancouver Opera in 2017 featuring an array of stylish costumes by renowned Canadian fashion designer Sid Neigum.

VERDI

JAMES WESTMAN RIGOLETTO

SHARLEEN JOYNT GILDA

40 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

MATTHEW WHITE THE DUKE

SIMON CHALIFOUX FIGARO

CAITLIN WOOD SUSANNA

PHILLIP ADDIS COUNT ALMAVIVA

LARA CIEKIEWICZ COUNTESS ALMAVIVA

BECOME A SEASON TICKET HOLDER TODAY AND ENJOY EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BERNSTEIN

CA NDIDE

THE BEST SEATS AT THE BEST PRICES Enjoy first choice of seats at the Jubilee and save up to 30% over single ticket prices

FLEXIBLE EXCHANGES

MARCH 14, 17 & 20, 2020 OPERA MEETS BROADWAY IN THIS COMEDY FROM THE COMPOSER OF WEST SIDE STORY In the Age of Enlightenment, an optimistic simpleton and his band of misfits travel the world in search of happiness, only to find chaos and trouble around every corner! Based on Voltaire’s celebrated novel, Candide is a delightful satire that features hit tunes like “Glitter and be gay” and “Make our garden grow”.

Pack your bags for the adventure of a lifetime and get ready to experience exotic destinations, outlandish characters, and Bernstein’s thrilling melodies!

Exchange your tickets for an alternate evening with no service fee

YOUR SEATS BELONG TO YOU

We’ll save your seats every year until the renewal deadline

SPECIAL ACCESS TO EXTRA TICKETS Enjoy advanced access to additional single tickets at a discounted rate

EXCLUSIVE OFFERS

Savings on additional tickets for friends and family, plus other special offers

LEAVE THE TRAGEDY FOR THE STAGE Guarantee your seats for popular productions and avoid disappointment

Season ticket packages start at just $75!

ADAM FISHER CANDIDE

CAITLIN WOOD CUNEGONDE

JOHN ULLYATT PANGLOSS / GOVERNOR

780.429.1000

edmontonopera.com COUNT ORY 41

Servus Credit Union thrives because our branches are deeply rooted in the communities we serve.

We are proud sponsors of the arts in Edmonton and pleased to support the Edmonton Opera Company.

servus.ca ®/™ Trademark(s) of Servus Credit Union.

42 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

SEE MORE DANCE.

Now

I know

The Liminal

Purchase tickets at balletedmonton.ca

Purchase tickets at bwdc.ca

May 3 - 5, 2019

Bridges

catering

June 13 - 14, 2019

Experience the all new 2019

Cadillac XT4

10727 - 82 AVENUE, EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6E 2B1 TOLL FREE: 1-877-719-2090 • donwheaton.com

COUNT ORY 43

Proud to Sponsor the Edmonton Opera

1•888•503•7610

Edmonton Opera Magazine is published four times per year by Playhouse Publications Ltd. The contents of Edmonton Opera Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher. All rights reserved by Playhouse Publications Ltd.

Inquiries should be made to: Playhouse Publications Ltd. • 10177-105 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T5J 1E2 Ph: 780-423-5834 • Fax: 780-413-6185 • www.playhousepublications.ca

PLAYHOUSE PUBLICATIONS LTD. President & Publisher: Rob Suggitt • Art Director & Designer: Christine Kucher Advertising Sales: Barry Powis • Administration: Amber Grmek Edmonton Opera Magazine is a product of Playhouse Publications Ltd., an affiliate of Suggitt Publishers.

President & CEO: Tom Suggitt • President & CFO: Rob Suggitt

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

Suggitt PUBLISHERS

44 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Box office: 15230 128 Ave., Edmonton, AB T5V 1A8 • 780-429-1000 Administration: 780-424-4040 • Fax: 780-429-0600 Email: info@edmontonopera.com www.edmontonopera.com

edmonton opera board of directors 2018-2019 season

Craig D. Corbett, Chair Francis Price, Vice Chair Ken Keenleyside, Treasurer Richard Cook, Past Chair Irv Kipnes, Chair Emeritus

Enzo Barichello Garner Beggs Robert Bessette Jennifer Brown

Frank Calder Mary Clonfero Hans Forbrich Melanie Nakatsui

Bernie Robitaille Daniel Rojek Sheri Somerville

edmonton opera staff Executive Tim Yakimec, General Director*

Finance Debra King, CFO Serene Yau, Accountant

Community Relations Cameron MacRae, Director of Marketing & Communications Victoria Modine, Patron Services Manager Rohan Kulkarni, Communications & Community Engagement Coordinator Madison Kerr, Marketing Assistant Montana Craft, Patron Services Associate & Receptionist

Fund Development Gwen Horvath, Director of Fund Development Mary-Lou Hamilton, Director of Strategic Partnerships Jennifer Hinnell, Development Manager, Grants and Foundations Gordana Bosiocic, Event Manager & Donor Relations Chris Friesen, Fund Development Assistant

Artistic Administration Ha Neul Kim, Director of Artistic Operations, Resident Stage Manager* Peter Dala, Resident Conductor & Chorusmaster* Leanne Regehr, Understudy Coach

Production and technical Clayton Rodney, Production & Technical Director* Alison Hardy, Assistant Production Manager* Christian Zeretzke, Technical Assistant Megan Kumpula, Head of Properties & Head Scenic Artist Shanna Orgovan, Assistant Head Scenic Artist* Lisa Ruelling, Scenic Artist Kim North, Scenic Artist Cassidy Armstrong, Scenic Artist Terri Grant, Scenic Artist Tyrena Carmen, Scenic Artist Nicole Scherrer, Scenic Artist Andrée Simard, Scenic Artist Intern – training program Mikael Gustafsson, Head Scenic Carpenter & Shop Supervisor Connor MacDonald, Assistant Head Properties / Scenic Carpenter Vincent Meseck, Head Welder / Scenic Carpenter Kris Aasen, Scenic Carpenter Kieran Thomas, Scenic Carpenter Jamie O’Dell, Scenic Carpenter Patrick Brunet, Scenic Carpenter Hanna Bailey, Scenic Carpentry Intern – training program Deanna Finnman, Head, Wardrobe & Resident Wardrobe Designer*

Brenda Inglis, First Assistant Wardrobe* Ava Siemens, Second Assistant Wardrobe Kathryn Neuman, Stitcher Genevieve Savard, Stitcher Danine Regenwetter, Stitcher Michelle Warren, Stitcher Terri Grant, Stitcher Viola Peters, Stitcher Christa Hoefling, Stitcher Emma Allarie, Stitcher Intern – training program Lela Stairs-Murphy, Cutter Judy Darough, Cutter Margie Berggren, Milliner Joanna Johnston, Dyer Nicole Scherrer, Transportation Captain / Production Assistant Murray Farnell, Transportation Captain Mia MacVicar, Production Assistant Tyrena Carmen, Production Assistant Nicholas Juba, Production Assistant Evangeline Cardinal, Production Assistant Hunter Luth, Production Assistant Taralyn Bieganek, EO Facilities Jeff Yee, EO Facilities

Production and technical Stage Crew Geoff Bacchus, Head Stage Carpenter* Jeff Connors, Assistant Head Stage Carpenter Al Kliss, Head Fly* Randy Tomiuk, Acting Head Fly Joseph (Bud) Race, Head Electrics* Catherine Whittingstall, Assistant Head Electrics Mike Tomiuk, Followspot Operator Martin Wilde, Followspot Operator Alan Wightmore, Followspot Operator Megan Kumpula, Head of Properties Connor MacDonald, Assistant Head Properties Danine Regenwetter, Head Wardrobe Dresser Kathryn Neuman, Assistant Head Wardrobe Dresser Cathy Nicoll, Head Make-up* Noreen Jani, Assistant Head Make-up* Leanne Scott, Make-up Osase Emokpae, Make-up Rebecca Klassen, Wigs & Hair Nancy Horn, Wigs & Hair* Charlotte DeLaet, Wigs & Hair FengYi Jiang, Supertitle Cuer *10 years or more of service to Edmonton Opera COUNT ORY 45

�pcoming

events

UMMER OPERA CAMP

Opera al Fresco | Friday, July 5, 2019 The newly renovated University of Alberta Botanic Garden (formerly Devonian Botanic Garden) July • 9 ammusic –4 pm will15–19, come alive2019 with charming during our annual celebration of summer, Opera al Fresco!

Savour hors d’oeuvres wine as you enjoy performances Edmonton OperaandCentre (15230 128 Ave) of opera and musical theatre favourites at four different locations in the Garden, including the new Aga Khan Garden.

Grades 4–6 • $250 per child This event sells out every year, so purchase your tickets today!

Facilitated by Kate Ryan and featuring local artists Join us on a five-day creative adventure exploring Mozart’s fantasy epic 15-19, The Magic Opera Camp | July 2019Flute!

Activities scenic painting, Childreninclude: in Gradesmusic, 4–6 areacting, invited to explore the different art forms that come together in opera costume design, prop building more! through the story of Mozart’s Theand Magic Flute! They’ll learn music, build props, paint scenery, and

put ononline: a performance for parents at the end of the week. Register today because spots are limited!

Register edmontonopera.com/operacamp

Opera Brunch | Sunday, October 6, 2019 | 11 a.m.

Savour an exquisite brunch and enjoy performances by the cast of Rigoletto at Opera Brunch, featuring baritone James Westman (seen as Germont in 2018’s La Traviata), soprano Sharleen Joynt (making her Edmonton Opera debut) and American tenor Matthew White.

Opera 101 | October 2019 Enjoy a wine & cheese reception at the historic CKUA building downtown (9804 Jasper Ave) followed by a lively panel discussion about Edmonton Opera’s new production of Rigoletto.

Our panelists will talk about Verdi’s thrilling music and some topical connections in this opera.

Admission is free, more details coming soon!

Student Dress Rehearsal | Thursday, October 17, 2019 | 7 p.m.

The final dress rehearsal of Rigoletto is a great way for students to experience opera at the Jubilee. Bring your class to the most exciting field trip of the year by emailing education@edmontonopera.com today! We also have an education guide available online to learn more about Rigoletto before you attend the dress rehearsal.

Rigoletto | October 19, 22 & 25, 2019 Verdi’s high-stakes revenge thriller tells the story of an infamous court jester and his comeuppance at the hands of his enemies, set to some of the most beautiful music in the opera repertoire! Don’t miss our new production starring baritone James Westman, acclaimed by critics and audiences as Germont in 2018’s La Traviata. Tickets start at $29.

Hit the high note.

This is your time.

Introducing the first-ever 2019 Audi Q8.

The all-new 2019 Audi A6: A new standard Starting from $83,417* and performance. for luxury, technology, Starting from $70,417*

West on Stony Plain NW at The Henday Audi Edmonton North 18855 Stony Plain Road NW Edmonton, AB T5S 2X6 (587) 772-2834 AudiEdmontonNorth.com *Pricingapplies appliesto toaanew new2019 2019Audi AudiQ8 A6 55 55 TFSI TFSI quattro quattro Progressiv Progressiv tiptronic with selling of $70,417 includingincluding freight &freight PDI, documentation fee ($495), conditioning levy ($100), recycling levy ($4/tire), and AMVIC ($6.25).

Taxes *Pricing withprice selling price of $83,417 & PDI, documentation feeair ($495), air conditioning levytire ($100), tire recycling levy ($4/tire), andfee AMVIC fee ($6.25). are extra.

Offer Offer subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Vehicle shownshown solelysolely for purposes of illustration, and may benot equipped exactly as shown.

See Audi NorthNorth for complete details.

DealerDealer #4991570.

Taxes are extra. subject to change or cancellation without notice.

Vehicle for purposes of illustration, andnot may be equipped exactly as shown.

SeeEdmonton Audi Edmonton for complete details. #4991570.

WHY LEXUS OF EDMONTON? Choice of courtesy vehicle, chauffeur service or valet pick-up Complimentary car wash, vaccuum, paint and window rock chip touch-up Complimentary breakfast at Ricky’s while you wait for your service

Luxury Spa offering manicures and pedicures, gel polish, parafin wax, and massage chairs

Airport Valet Service and Lexus VIP parking at the Edmonton International Airport

Read our Google reviews online to see why Lexus of Edmonton is the top rated dealership in Canada