Edmonton Opera Magazine - Hansel & Gretel

WINTER 2019 SEASON SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR Judy Cosco

Hansel & Gretel HUMPERDINCK

@edmontonopera #eoHanselandGretel

Winter 2019

4 Message from the Director

20 Program Notes

6 Partners and Sponsors

25 Community Arts Events Listings

9 Sustainability Fund

27 Artists’ Profiles

11 Director’s Circle

33 Edmonton Opera Chorus and

12 Friends of Edmonton Opera

15 Endowment Fund

17 Composer Bio

18 Synopsis

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

34 Count Ory Preview

38 2019/20 Season Preview

41 Edmonton Opera Board and Staff

42 Upcoming Events

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GOVERNMENT & FOUNDATION SUPPORT

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

Message from the director When the design team and I met for the first time last January, we started a discussion about the elements in the story of Hansel & Gretel that really stood out as important.

What we concluded was that the overall themes of ‘good vs. evil’ and ‘day vs. night’ were the most prevalent. And when listening to Humperdinck’s music, we became immediately aware of the richness and beauty, of dark overtones combined with light playful themes that represent childhood innocence.

Hansel and Gretel’s life at home is plagued by poverty and their world is literally devoid of colour. But in the forest, they feel alive and in control of their destiny. It is a world of colour and joy…until they get lost and face the coming night.

Trees that were once glorious symbols of Hansel and Gretel’s forest-freedom now become monsters, terrifying and threatening. The Witch’s house, whose candy-coated façade masks an inner world of evil, allows us to play with the contrast of colour and grayscale. It shows us that what is colourful and enticing on the surface can be something quite different inside. And what was once good in the beginning is actually a nightmare in the end — a familiar theme in today’s world.

Finally, I looked to the 1955 film noir titled Night of the Hunter as an initial inspiration for the production because it is so reminiscent of Hansel & Gretel. There is a very dark side to it, somewhat spooky, which provides a perfect background for this tale. So in the end we decided to embrace the aesthetic and feel of colour vs. grayscale, darkness vs. light and good vs. evil. After all, isn’t that life in a nutshell? I hope you enjoy tonight’s deliciously dark production.

– Robert Herriot

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PARTNERS

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SPONSORS

SEASON SPONSORS

The Rob Hood Fund PRESENTING SPONSOR

Judy Cosco Production Sponsors Hansel & Gretel opening night sponsor

Hansel & Gretel TUESDAY night sponsor

Hansel & Gretel friDAY night sponsor

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

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6 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Official Supporters

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Production photographs of Edmonton Opera’s Hansel & Gretel 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.

EDMONTON OPERA GIVES SPECIAL THANKS TO Jim & Sharon Brown Irv & Dianne Kipnes Bill & Paulette Winter

FRIDAY EVENING HOSTS OF HANSEL & GRETEL HANSEL & GRETEL 7

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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 Winter Paulette Winter Glenn & Sandra Woolsey

Corporations & Foundations

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

PCL Constructors Inc. Qualico RBC Wealth Management 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.

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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 Larry Eberlein The Highbury Foundation The Summit Foundation

LEADERS $5,000-$9,999 Bennett Jones Dr. Frederic & Alma Gojmerac Stephen & Lynn Mandel Marjorie Purdy Chris & Vivian Varvis PATRONS $3,000-$4,999 Tricia Abbott Frank Calder Fath Group/O’Hanlon Paving Ltd. Jeffrey Jansen Dr. Christine Kyriakides Steven & Day LePoole Joan Lopatka & Bill Rutledge Judy & Stuart Mackay Rod & Heleen McLeod Arliss Miller Alan Rose Dr. P.J. White & Patty Whiting

BenefactorS $1,750-$2,999 Darlene Acton Anonymous (2) 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 Joseph & Pat Fernando Peter & Astrid Griep Gabor Gyenes & Erika Mullner Brian Kucey & Elena Hernandez-Kucey Peggy & John Marko Hugh McPhail & Yolanda Van Wachem Risha Milo Dr. Kyle & Colleen Murray Eleanor Olszewski Dr. Leonard Ratzlaff Mary Ritchie & Bill Johnston Dave & Michele Rumbold Dr. Sudhakar Sivapalan Donald & Jacqueline Smith David Steer Catherine Von Hohenbalken Joyce Walton Ralph James Wood

friends SustainerS

($1,000-$1,749) Alberta Measurement Services Arrow Engineering Jocelyn Bahrey Diane Buchanan John & Ann Dea Gift Funds A. R. Grynoch & P. V. Sing Mary-Lou Hamilton Donald & Susan Hickey Caroline Howarth & John Adria Michael Kazda Jill Konkin Hilliard Macbeth Rod MacLean Peggy Marko Denis & Ruth McGettigan Graham McLennan Carman & Averie McNary Janine Odishaw Fay Plomp Pratch Family Foundation Dr. Nancy Price James E. & Vivian Redmond Robert Rosen Marshall & Lisa Sadd Aroon Sequeira Patrick Spiers Team TELUS Cares Timbers Consulting Inc. William Timbers & Mary O’Connell Linda Uniat Ralph & Gay Young Family Fund Vonnie Zupan

of

Edmonton Opera

Pavel & Sylva Jelen Brandon Kot Dr. Zaheerali Lakhani Neil & Jean Lund Kelly MacFarlane & Christopher Mackay Devon J. Mark & Allen Vander Well Terry Moroz Les Moss Keith Mould 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 Tom Redl Matthew Rose Edmond & Orla Ryan Naomi Schmold & Craig Corbett Doug & Devika Short Nance & Michael Smith Dr. Thomas Snyder David Stults Rosalind Sydie Darcy Trufyn Barry Zalmanowitz

GUARDIANS

($250-$499) Lynn Adams Anonymous (2) Carolyn Baergen Dr. Vivien Bosley Thomas Bradley Judah Busheikin SUPPORTERS Nancy Cheng ($500-$999) Darren Currie Brent Agerbak Brenda Dale Cory Almquist Pat DeGrace Carl Amrhein Tony de Jong Andree Aston Dr. Jerrold & Lisa Diamond Garner Beggs Monique Draudson Loreen Belovich Mark England Sheryl & Bob Bowhay Karin Fodor Ryan Brown Walter Goetz Mark A. Dashkewytch June Greig Professional Corp.

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David & Sandra Kraatz Libuse Kuzel Cal Lange Campbell MacKenzie John Mahon Greg & Patrece Maluzynsky Colleen McKenna Linda Medland-Davis Ronald & Carole Middleton Kevin & Robyn Mott Alfred Nikolai Dr. George & Teresa Pemberton Anne Pratt Barbara Prodor Carolynne E. Ross Dorothy Scott-Stoutjesdyk Sheelagh & Andrew Semper Allison Seymour SFZ Teleservices Julie Sinclair Gerry & Barbara Sinn Nicholas Smith Belinda Snow St. David’s Welsh Society of Edmonton George & Susan Sterling Pat & Jim Strong Robert Swart Dennis Todoruk & Susan Stauffer Frank Van Veen Jackson von der Ohe Christopher & Elizabeth Ward Mike & Mary Wood Tim Yakimec

Chung Chu Janet M. Clark Mary Clonfero Roger & Carol Cohen Joseph & Marta Collier Mary Cousineau Tim Crisall & Stefanie Ivan Laurel Deedrick-Mayne James & Gail DeFelice Dan & Lorna Dennis Swarnamala Dharmaratne John Dickey Wendy Doughty & Jim Klingle Lloyd Dumonceaux Frank & Muriel Dunnigan Tim Eckert Martin & Jacqueline Elton Tom & Heather Etsell Steven Ewaskiw Alfred & Coleen Falk Greg & Cathy Farnell Luba Feduschak Lois A. Field Deanna Finnman Robert & Janet Fraser Jules Germain John & Elaine Gill Keith Gilroyed Gerda Goetz Charles & Ann Grant Darren Gray Brenda Gross Debby Hagen Douglas Haines Marylee Hansen Bohdan Harasymiw MEMBERS Ghislaine Hebert ($100-$249) Judy Heilman Jenny Adams R & Barbara Henderson Lisa Allen Lesley Heppleston Anonymous Jennifer Hinnell Warner & Bradley Armstrong Keith Warner Diana M. Bacon Donna Holowaychuk Vicki Barrow Gwen Horvath Nicole Bartolay Stuart Houston William Bellamy Mike Hruska Laszlo Beothy Bonny & Earl Hubert Calvin Binnema Dr. Sheila L. Hughes Janet Birchall Erik & Franziska Jacobsen Julia Boberg Janet Jansen Dr. Grace Bokenfohr Kevin Jerebic Phyllis Bryant Vern Stuart Johnston Joanne Burek & Lee Stickles David Jones Kelly Carter & Ken Keenleyside Adriana Koziak Carter Lynne Kest Patching Rick Charley HaNeul Kim & Dr. John Yun Elisebeth Checkel Debra King Donald Chisholm Shirley Kirkpatrick Desmond Chow Lorraine Kucey

Gloria Kushnir Kathryn Laurie Kaylee Laventure Victor Lillo Tamara Linklater Richard Loken & Margaret Newton Doug & Joan Longley Richard & Jean Lyne Lowell Lyseng Brenda MacDonald Louise MacGregor William MacKay Arlene MacLowick Cameron MacRae Steve & Kate Madsen John & Cathleen Matthews Joseph A. Matties Patricia McCaig Andrew McPherson Zoltan & Brigitte Meszoly Janet Millar Laquita Mitchell Gail Moores Maurizio Naccarato E. W. Gauk & Julianna Nagy Cindy Neufeld Kelly Palmer Sharon Pawlyk Iris Perry Sonja & David Powley Carlos Raposo & Judy Strachan Eugene & Jeanne Ratsoy Sharla & Dorian Rauschning Todd Reade Yvonne Rekken Constantino Renzi & Kimberly Dary Jordan Rice Clayton Rodney Corrina Rokosh Hilary Rose Lesly Round Katrina Rowe Dr. E. J. Rudnisky Marea Ruggles Tom & Bev Sawyer Thomas Schuelke Evelyn Schwabe Shauna Scott Brian Simpson Caroline Smith Edward & Eluned Smith Ian & Irene Sneddon Sheri Somerville Mark Spector Nicholas & Charlotte Spillios Nicole Stabile Meghan Stanbridge

Alison & Richard Starke Monelle Sturko Leslianne Sugiura Jean Sult Sarah Taylor

Louis Te William Tonn Alyson Turner Jenny Van Nistelrooy Dennis Vance

In honor of

In Memory of

Dianne Kipnes Barry James Marshall & Debby Shoctor

Orville Chubb Lisa Allen Patricia McCaig Marea & James Ruggles

Terry & Michelle Veeman Trudy Velichka John Wanchulak Lorrill Waschuk Jo-Anne Watt

Cristina Weiheimer Joan Welch James Wolfli & Annika Nordhagen Serene Yau

Mary LeMessurier The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation

Peter Caffaro Arliss Miller Sir Francis Price & Marguerite Trussler Maggie Dower Dr. Vivien Bosley Gerry & Barbara Sinn Michael & Nance Smith St. David’s Welsh Society of Edmonton

Sean Livingstone Merle Harris Aline Pratch Pratch Family Foundation

David M. Yee Jason Yohemas Marian Zaharia Gerhard & Inge Zmatlo

Mark Taylor Mark A. Dashkewytch Professional Corp.

Jean Hinko Lamb Ford Sales Ltd. Catherine Muster Meghan Stanbridge Video Tax News

Eira Spaner The Dianne & Irving Kipnes Foundation

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

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 January 7, 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

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• • • •

• • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • •

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.

HANSEL & GRETEL 13

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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 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

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Edmonton Opera presents

hansel & gretel February 2, 5 & 8, 2019 Music by Engelbert Humperdinck Libretto by Adelheid Wette Translation by David Pountney Engelbert Humperdinck (born September 1, 1854) was a German composer known most famously for his opera Hansel and Gretel. As a child, he produced his first composition after receiving piano lessons when he was only 7. His parents did not approve of his becoming a musician, so despite them encouraging him to study architecture, he took music classes at the Cologne Conservatory starting in 1872. As a stellar student, he rubbed shoulders with great contemporary composers and soon got acquainted with Richard Wagner.

Wagner invited him to go to Bayreuth, and during 1880-1881 Humperdinck assisted in the production of Parsifal.

His chief reputation rests on his opera Hänsel und Gretel, which was produced at Weimar, 1893. Among his other operatic works are Dornröschen (The Sleeping Beauty), Die Königskinder (The King’s Children) and Die Heirat wider Willen (The Forced Marriage). Humperdinck was greatly influenced by Richard Wagner, worked as his assistant, and eventually became music tutor to his son Siegfried Wagner.

While in Berlin, Humperdinck began work on Hänsel und Gretel after his sister Adelheid Wette asked him to compose music for a play for her children in 1890. He first started to compose Hänsel und Gretel, based on the fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm, as a Singspiel consisting of a play with 16 songs and piano accompaniment. A few months later, he presented the work to his fiancée Hedwig Taxer as an engagement present.

Quickly realizing the work’s potential, Engelbert Humperdinck instead decided to create a full-scale opera, and in January of 1891 he began working on a complete orchestration.

Nearly three years later Richard Strauss, who dubbed it “a masterpiece of the highest quality… all of it original, new, and so authentically German,” conducted its premiere.

With its beautiful synthesis of Wagnerian techniques and traditional German folk songs, Hänsel und Gretel was an instant and overwhelming success.

Premiere: December 23, 1893, Weimar, Germany

Conductor & Chorusmaster Director Scenery Designer Costume Designer Lighting & Projection Designer Repetiteur

Peter Dala Robert Herriot Camellia Koo Deanna Finnman Barry Steele Leanne Regehr

The Cast

Hansel Gretel Mother Father Sandman/Dew Fairy The Witch

Andrea Hill Lida Szkwarek Marion Newman Peter McGillivray Aidan Ferguson Robert Clark

with members of the Edmonton Opera Chorus & Supers, Cantilon Choirs and The Edmonton Symphony Orchestra

Chorusmaster Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager Assistant Stage Manager Apprentice Stage Manager Apprentice Stage Manager Child Wrangler

Peter Dala Ha Neul Kim Anna Davidson Matthew Lagacé Gaby Phaneuf Samantha Kennedy Kaylie Rennebohm

There will be a 20-minute intermission after Act 2.

The performance is approximately 2 hours and 20 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.

Humperdinck died of a heart attack on September 27, 1921.

HANSEL & GRETEL 17

A bite-sized SERVINg With no food left at home, Hansel and Gretel’s mother sends them into the dark forest to fetch some berries, not knowing that a Witch is waiting there to feast on the children. The Witch lures Hansel and Gretel into her gingerbread house with the promise of delicious treats, but they soon figure out her evil plans. With some quick thinking, they trick the Witch and throw her in the oven.

Hansel and Gretel escape and reunite with their parents.

SYNOPSIS Act I

Act III

Hansel and Gretel are at home. Both are extremely hungry

The Dew Fairy wakes the children. They see a

Mother comes home. As she scolds her children for not getting any work done while she was away, Mother accidentally spills the milk that was going to be their supper. Furious, she sends Hansel and Gretel out into the forest to pick berries.

When the children try to escape, the Witch casts a body-binding spell on Hansel. She then asks Gretel to check on the oven, planning to throw her in when the door is open. Gretel pretends like she has no idea how to work an oven and asks the Witch to show her. As the Witch opens the oven, Hansel and Gretel push her in and shut the door.

and waiting for Mother to arrive so they can finally have something to eat. Gretel shows Hansel a hidden container of milk that was given to their family by a neighbour. To avoid temptation, brother and sister start dancing.

Father comes home drunk, which angers Mother. But she cheers up immediately when he shows her all the groceries he has brought for supper. Father asks where the children are and Mother says they have gone to the woods. Horrified, he tells her about the Witch who lives there. Realizing their children are in danger, Mother and Father rush into the forest to save them.

gingerbread house and are tempted to have a taste. The Witch appears and invites them in, promising lots of delicious treats.

She says Hansel needs to be fed and fattened up.

Mother and Father are reunited with Hansel and Gretel.

Everyone gives thanks to be alive.

Act II Hansel is picking berries while Gretel weaves a crown of flowers. They hear a cuckoo singing and begin to eat

the berries, soon finishing the entire lot. Gretel scolds Hansel for being a pig and he in return tries to scare Gretel. The forest grows eerily quiet and Hansel realizes they are lost. Both children are very frightened.

The Sandman arrives and sprinkles sand over the children’s eyes, making them drowsy. Hansel and Gretel say a prayer before they sleep.

In their dreams, fourteen angels appear.

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.

JOHN TESSIER CAITLIN WOOD SARAH MESKO

Edmonton

CHAMBER MUSIC Society

This quintessential American string quartet draws on a deep engagement with the classics, as well as championing new works – a vibrant combination of the familiar and the daring.

Areta Zhulla violin Ronald Copes violin Roger Tapping viola Astrid Schween cello

JUILLIARD STRING QUARTET Monday, March 18 McDougall United Church

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HANSEL & GRETEL 19

NOT JUST A CHILDREN’S OPERA Is it based on a popular kids’ fairy tale?

Yes. Does it have cutesy rhymes and folk melodies? Sure. But Hansel & Gretel is definitely not just for the little ones. In fact, if you’ve brought kids to experience this opera, they will be at a pretty high level of music appreciation by the end of it. They’ll be ready for The Ring Cycle next!

The maturity and complex musical themes in Hansel & Gretel are no surprise considering composer Engelbert Humperdinck (1854-1921) trained under Richard Wagner, who created masterpieces such as Parsifal, Tristan und Isolde, The Flying Dutchman, and of course, The Ring Cycle. Wagner’s knack for rich, soaring orchestrations that tell larger-than-life stories of heroes, epic journeys, and ill-fated lovers definitely rubbed off on Humperdinck’s style.

There are several instances throughout the overture, interludes, and forest scenes in Hansel & Gretel where Humperdinck taps into his Wagnerian vocabulary to express the darkness and weight of this story. A particularly chilling moment happens when the children realize they are lost in the forest; as they say “Who’s there?,” their voices echo through the trees, followed by a tense cuckoo sound that leads to complete silence. The music resumes menacingly and the children begin to freak out, ending in a whirlwind of vocal and orchestral panic just before the Sandman arrives to calm them down.

What makes Hansel & Gretel more than just ‘Wagner-lite’ however is Humperdinck’s love of folk melodies, which relate more closely to his fascination with the intimate and approachable world of fairy tales.

The childlike simplicity of ‘tra la las’ helps make the characters more human and the music more memorable.

Through Hansel & Gretel, Humperdinck tells a story that will appeal to the child in all of us, but will also engage young people in a very mature musical sensibility. He ensures that great opera can feel equally at home while you tuck your kids into bed as it does on a large stage.

Though Hansel & Gretel is a fairy tale, their family’s story is a reality for many people in our own community. After changes were announced to the Canada Food Guide just a few weeks ago, it has become increasingly evident that many Canadians cannot afford to meet our national nutrition requirements. A recent CBC piece cites studies asserting around 1 in 6 Canadian children is affected by household food insecurity and over 90% of students grade 6 to 12 are not eating their daily recommended servings. Poor childhood nutrition takes a huge toll on physical development, mental health, and can cause a number of chronic illnesses as kids get older.

Local food banks across the country work tirelessly to provide wholesome meals to those in need. Edmonton’s Food Bank, the first of its kind in Canada, has been operating since 1981 and distributes food hampers to over 22,000 people each month (approximately 40% of whom are children). They also provide nearly 500,000 meals and snacks monthly through affiliated agencies, including 59 schools in the Edmonton area. Supervised school lunch programs are an effective way to ensure that kids receive proper nutrition; sometimes their only meal of the day will be at school.

“Knowing the opera’s emphasis on hunger and poverty, we decided to collaborate with Edmonton’s Food Bank and help make a difference for the children in our community,” says Tim Yakimec, General Director of Edmonton Opera. “We hope one day Hansel & Gretel can be just what it is — a fairy tale.”

We will be accepting contributions of non-perishable items towards Edmonton’s Food Bank at every performance of Hansel & Gretel and at our Box Office (15230 128 Ave) until February 8. Most needed items for children include healthy school snacks (fruit cups, granola bars, juice boxes, peanut butter), canned fruits & vegetables, and baby formula. You may also make a donation directly to the Food Bank.

JOHN TESSIER CAITLIN WOOD SARAH MESKO COUNT ORY ADELE ISOLIER

HELP HANSEL & GRETEL FILL THEIR BASKET!

A major theme in Hansel & Gretel is hunger and the extent to which it can affect family relationships. Throughout the opera, starvation is an imminent reality for the children, and we see the amount of stress it causes the parents. The Mother’s shame and anger at being unable to provide for her children causes her to lash out and tell them to forage for food in the forest. The Father, on the other hand, often comes home drunk.

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Artists’

PROFILES Peter Dala

Conductor & 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 over 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.

Robert Herriot Director

Canadian stage director Robert Herriot has directed many productions for Edmonton Opera including Cinderella, HMS Pinafore, Turandot, Magic Flute, Tosca, The Mikado, Pirates of Penzance and Daughter of the Regiment. Other productions include Madama Butterfly, Barber of Seville, La Bohème, Lucia di Lammermoor, Rigoletto, Don Pasquale, Don Giovanni, Marriage of Figaro, Così fan tutte and Tartuffe for companies across North America including Manitoba Opera, Edmonton Opera, Opera Lyra Ottawa, Utah Opera, Arizona Opera, Connecticut Opera, Livermore Valley Opera and Opera Nuova. His productions have been nominated for 2 Betty Mitchell Awards and 4 Sterling Awards. Rob is always very happy to be back with his Edmonton Opera family.

Deanna Finnman Costume Designer

Deanna’s 19-year association with Edmonton Opera as head of the wardrobe department and resident costume designer has included costume design credits for HMS Pinafore, Elektra, Cinderella, Carmen, The Magic Flute, 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 Don Giovanni.

Barry Steele

Lighting & Projection Designer For two decades Barry Steele has created video and lighting designs for opera, dance, and music productions worldwide. Notable engagements include San Francisco Opera Center, Lucinda Childs Dance Company, Nantes Opera, and Carnegie Hall.

New operas such as Vincent, Florencia en el Amazonas, and The Fall of the House of Usher complement his considerable list of standard opera repertory from designing many productions as Resident Lighting Designer for Sarasota Opera, Des Moines Metro Opera, and New Jersey Opera. Since 1989, Mr. Steele has lit dance in all styles for a diverse range of dance groups including ODC Dance Company and Battery Dance Company.

Camellia Koo Scenery Designer

Camellia has collaborated with Edmonton Opera on The Tales of Hoffmann, Maria Stuarda, Carmen, and HMS Pinafore. Other opera collaborations include Against the Grain, Boston Lyric Opera, Canadian Opera Company, Edmonton Opera, 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).

HANSEL & GRETEL 27

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Artists’

PROFILES Andrea Hill

Hansel | mezzo soprano From Calgary, mezzo-soprano Andrea Hill established her career in Paris and has performed internationally on such stages as Paris National Opera, La Scala Milan, New York’s Metropolitan Opera, Covent Garden in London, Gran Teatre de Liceu, Calgary Opera, Pacific Opera Victoria and Opéra national de Lorraine à Nancy. During the 20182019 season, she appears as Dryade in Ariadne auf Naxos for Festival d’Aix en Provence, Orfeo in Gluck’s Orfeo ed Euridice with Opéra Théâtre de Metz Métropole, reprises Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia for Manitoba Opera, and joins Edmonton Opera for Hansel in Hansel and Gretel. Her recent concert schedule included Messiah for the Milwaukee Symphony and Kitchener’s Grand Philharmonic Choir.

Lida Szkwarek Gretel | soprano

Soprano Lida Szkwarek has established herself as a prominent young artist on the Canadian opera scene.

The 2017-18 season held a very exciting debut as Gretel in Humperdinck’s Hänsel und Gretel with Guelph Symphony Orchestra. Ms. Szkwarek is thrilled to be returning to Edmonton Opera this season to sing Gretel once again in their new production. In 2017 Ms. Szkwarek was praised for her performance of Filumena in the remounting of John Estacio’s Filumena with Calgary Opera.

Ms. Szkwarek also debuted with Niagara Symphony as the Soprano Soloist in Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 under the baton of Bradley Thachuk. Other recent performances include Erste Dame (Die Zauberflöte) with Calgary Opera and Micaëla (Carmen) with Edmonton Opera. Upcoming performances include the Soprano Soloist in Beethoven Mass in C with Guelph Symphony Orchestra.

Marion Newman

Mother | mezzo soprano Kwagiulth and Stó:lō First Nations, English, Irish and Scottish mezzo-soprano Marion Newman is firmly established as one of Canada’s most accomplished singers in repertoire ranging from Vivaldi to Vivier.

Noted for her “sumptuous mezzo tone and impressive vocal agility,” Marion’s operatic roles include Carmen and Rosina in The Barber of Seville. On the concert stage Marion has performed with Canada’s most prestigious orchestras and choral organizations and has starred in many world premieres of several operas/chamber works that speak to her First Nations identity, including Missing with City Opera Vancouver/Pacific Opera Victoria, I call Myself Princess with Paper Canoe Projects/Cahoots Theatre and Bramwell Tovey’s song cycle Ancestral Voices with Vancouver Symphony. This season, Marion premieres in the title role of Shanawdithit (Burry/Nolan) with Toronto’s Tapestry Opera and Opera on the Avalon in St. John’s, Newfoundland.

Peter McGillivray Father | baritone

First prize winner in the CBC Young Performers Competition and Dora Award Nominee for Outstanding Operatic Male Performance in The Overcoat (Canadian Stage, Vancouver Opera, Tapestry Opera), Saskatchewan baritone Peter McGillivray‘s current season includes Don Pizarro in Fidelio (Pacific Opera Victoria), Don Magnifico in La Cenerentola (Vancouver Opera) and the Father in Hansel and Gretel (Edmonton Opera). Further credits include Stubb in Moby Dick (Dallas Opera), Bartolo in Le nozze di Figaro (Manitoba Opera and Calgary Opera), Carmina Burana (Amadeus Choir), Starek in Jenůfa (Pacific Opera Victoria), Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (Regina Symphony), Father Palmer in Silent Night (Calgary Opera) and Handel’s Messiah (National Arts Centre Orchestra).

Aidan Ferguson

Sandman/Dew Fairy | soprano Aidan Ferguson is gaining an enviable reputation based on her effortless musicality and dramatic intensity. Praised for her recent performance as Mère Marie in Dialogues des Carmelites with Opéra de Montréal, she has appeared in Canada and for Theater Basel in Switzerland, singing such roles as Emilia in Otello, Nicklausse in Les Contes d’Hoffmann, the title role in The Rape of Lucretia, and Zweite Magd in Strauss’s Daphne. This season, she made her successful Wagner début as Fricka in Das Rheingold for Opéra de Montréal. Additional credits include the Toronto Symphony, Victoria Symphony and Opéra de Québec.

Robert Clark The Witch | tenor

Previous roles include Young Servant in Elektra (Edmonton Opera), Kronprinz in Silent Night (Calgary Opera), Arturo in Lucia di Lammermoor (Edmonton Opera), Narraboth in Salome (Edmonton Opera), The Steersman in The Flying Dutchman (Calgary Opera), Beppe in I Pagliacci (Edmonton Opera), Flask and Ahab (cover) in Moby Dick (Calgary Opera), Jaquino in Fidelio (Edmonton Opera), Tamino in Die Zauberflöte (Highlands Opera Studio), Macduff in Macbeth (Pacific Opera Victoria), and Roderigo in Otello (Calgary Opera). Robert is also a Voice Professor at Concordia University, a Personal Trainer, and is the Official Anthem singer for the Edmonton Oilers.

HANSEL & GRETEL 29

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Artists’

PROFILES Leanne Regehr Repetiteur

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.

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: 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.

Matthew Lagacé

Assistant Stage Manager Matthew Lagacé is thrilled to be returning to the Edmonton Opera having previously worked on La Traviata in October 2018. An Alumnus of the University of Manitoba’s Theatre Program, some of his previous stage management credits include: Don Giovanni, La Traviata, Madama Butterfly, Falstaff, The Marriage of Figaro (Manitoba Opera); The Whipping Man, (Winnipeg Jewish Theatre); The Flats/Les Flats (Prairie Theatre Exchange/Théâtre Cercle Molière). Upcoming productions: Que faire d’Albert? (Prairie Theatre Exchange/Théâtre Cercle Molière).

“A big thank you to my friends and family for all your love and support. Go Jets Go!”

HANSEL & GRETEL 31

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32 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Edmonton Opera chorus Cantilon Choirs Founder & Artistic Director: Heather Johnson Children’s chorus Melodie Baker Sophie Brereton Jeanette Choy Julia Cordeiro Elizabeth Flexer Mia Friedenthal Misha Joffe

Elyse Merryweather Lydia Shippit Norah Shippit Sidney Thomas Sophie Turgeon Anastasia Vlasova Patience Walters

and supers

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Supernumeraries

Isabel Davis Louise Ashdown Krista Paton Ruth Wong-Miller Lydia-Ann Levesque Jill Hoogewoonink

Howard Kowalchuk* Adrian Howard Tim Lo

* Ten or more productions with EO

Edmonton Symphony orchestra Chief Conductor: Alexander Prior Conductor: Peter Dala Violin 1

Viola

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Eric Buchmann Virginie Gagne Neda Yamach Ewald Cheung Aiyana Anderson-Howatt Anna Kozak Jim Cockell Susan Flook Broderyck Olson Laura Veeze

Clayton Leung Kerry Kavalo Rhonda Henshaw Martina Smazal Jeannette Comeau Stefan Jungkind

Lidia Khaner Paul Schieman

Christopher Taylor

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Violin 2 Dianne New Sarah Kim Heather Bergen ZoĂŤ Sellers Robert Hryciw Tatiana Warszynski Murray Vaasjo Alison Zdunich

bass Jan Urke Max Cardilli Janice Quinn Andrew Lawrence

flute Elizabeth Koch Stephanie Morin

Julianne Scott David Quinn Matthew Howatt Edith Stacey Allene Hackleman Megan Evans Donald Plumb

Trumpet Robin Doyon Frederic Payant

Trombone John McPherson

tIMPANI Percussion Brian Jones Brian Thurgood Ryan Pliska

harp Nora Bumanis

Orchestra Personnel Manager Eric Filpula

Librarian Aaron Christopher Hawn

ESO Production Staff Jerrold Eilander Mike Patton HANSEL & GRETEL 33

MISCHIEF

HAS A NEW NAME...

“One of Rossini’s wittiest and most sophisticated works” —The New York Times To end the 2018/19 season on a high note, we present the Alberta premiere of Rossini’s The Misadventures of Count Ory, or Le comte Ory in French. This laugh-out-loud comedy takes you for a ride with an infamous skirt-chasing Count who has his eyes on a Countess and will try every trick in the book to woo her. That includes hiding in closets, making up fake names, and even disguising himself as a nun!

Edmonton Opera’s new production will be directed

by Brian Deedrick, featuring scenery design by Camellia Koo (Hansel & Gretel, HMS Pinafore) and costumes by Deanna Finnman (Don Giovanni, Hansel & Gretel).

Rossini’s final comedy

You may recognize Rossini’s effervescent music from blockbuster operas such as The Barber of Seville and Cinderella. He became known around the world for his comic genius and ability to create a colourful score that would have audiences humming along.

Before transitioning to dramatic opera, Rossini decided to go out with a bang — in Count Ory, he delivers his signature bel canto melodies, a roller coaster of high notes, and tops it all off with an incredible a cappella septet (not four, not five, but seven characters singing at the same time).

34 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

Master of Disguise

Count Ory may not your typical romantic hero, but his boorish antics make for some hilarious moments on stage. He is essentially a draft dodger, preferring to stay home and chase after women while all the men are away at war. He disguises himself as a hermit to escape from his Tutor and sits outside the castle giving women scandalous relationship advice. When he is exposed as a fraud, Ory makes a run for it, but returns shortly after dressed up as nun. He also brings along a bunch of his friends disguised as nuns, who raid the Countess’s wine cellar and have a notvery-convent-appropriate party!

An all-star cast

We are thrilled to welcome back internationally renowned, Juno Award-winning tenor John Tessier in the title role. He was adored by audiences in our recent productions of Don Giovanni and Cinderella for his “light and graceful” lyrical tenor (Edmonton Journal). Soprano Caitlin Wood, last seen as the hilarious stepsister in Cinderella, stars as Adele.

American mezzo soprano Sarah Mesko makes her Canadian debut as Isolier, Count Ory’s page who is also in love with Adele. Sarah has appeared numerous times on the Metropolitan Opera stage and has been praised by The Washington Post for her “consistently beautiful sound” and “rich mezzo soprano” voice.

April 6, 9 & 12, 2019 • Jubilee Auditorium Tickets from $29 • Act now for best seats!

780.429.1000 • edmontonopera.com

HELPING OUR ARTS COMMUNITIES

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At MNP, we know that a thriving arts and cultural community can spur economic growth, inspire innovation and accelerate the creative vitality of the region. We like to believe we have earned a five-star reputation in strengthening our cultural communities and industries through our support for artists and arts organizations since 1945.

To find out how MNP can help your organization shine, contact Dustin Sundby at 780.451.4406 or dustin.sundby@mnp.ca

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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.

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38 EDMONTON OPERA 2018/19 SEASON

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CA NDIDE

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!

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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 Kendra Litwin, Arts Administration Assistant

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 Nicole Scherrer, Scenic Artist Tyrena Carmen, 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 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, Stitcher Kathryn Neuman, Stitcher Genevieve Savard, Stitcher Danine Regenwetter, Stitcher Viola Peters, Stitcher Emma Allarie, Stitcher Intern – training program Terri Grant, Wardrobe Prop Accessories Lela Stairs-Murphy, Cutter Judy Darough, Cutter Margie Berggren, Milliner Michelle Warren, Assistant Milliner Joanna Johnston, Dyer Kathleen Mulder, Dyer Nicole Scherrer, 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, Head Fly Operator Martin Wilde, Assistant Head Fly Operator Tom Purse, Fly Operator Joseph (Bud) Race, Head Electrics* Catherine Whittingstall, Assistant Head Electrics Alan Wightmore, Followspot Operator Jo-Anne Montgomery, Followspot Operator Stephan Lentz, Followspot Operator Megan Kumpula, Head Properties Connor MacDonald, Assistant Head Properties Larissa O’Hare, Head Video 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 Rebecca Klassen, Wigs & Hair Charlotte DeLaet, Wigs & Hair Kendra Litwin, Supertitle Cuer *10 years or more of service to Edmonton Opera HANSEL & GRETEL 41

�pcoming

events

Valentine’s Gala | Thursday, February 14, 2019 Step out in style for a romantic evening at Edmonton Opera’s annual Valentine’s Gala fundraiser!

This year’s Gala celebrates Edmonton Opera’s 55th season at the Shaw Conference Centre, with spectacular performances by Citie Ballet, the Royal Canadian Artillery Band, and the Edmonton Opera Chorus.

Opera Brunch | Sunday, March 17, 2019 | 11 a.m.

Take in our beautiful new venue at The Enjoy Centre in St. Albert as you sip on a mimosa,

savour an exquisite brunch, and then enjoy performances by the cast of Count Ory. The Count Ory Opera Brunch will feature singers such as Sarah Mesko (with stage credits at the Met Opera),

John Tessier (seen in Don Giovanni), and Caitlin Wood (Clorinda in Cinderella).

Opera 101 | Wednesday, March 20, 2019 | 7 p.m.

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 The Misadventures of Count Ory. Our panelists will talk about Rossini’s music and the tradition of French comedy, as well as what to look forward to in this Western Canadian premiere.

Admission is free, please RSVP on Eventbrite to reserve your spot.

Student Dress Rehearsal | Thursday, April 4, 2019 | 7 p.m.

The final dress rehearsal of Count Ory 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 Count Ory before you attend the dress rehearsal.

The Misadventures of Count Ory | April 6, 9 & 12, 2019 From the composer of The Barber of Seville comes another raucous comedy with gorgeous bel canto melodies and vocal fireworks galore! Directed by Brian Deedrick and starring renowned tenor John Tessier as the mischievous Count, this Western Canadian premiere promises you an evening of laughter, entertainment, and charming music. Tickets start at $29.

Opera al fresco | Friday, July 5, 2019 | 7 p.m.

Join us at the newly renovated University of Alberta Botanic Garden (formerly Devonian Garden) for an evening of hors d’oeuvres, wine, and charming performances on four stages!

Opera al Fresco is the year’s most elegant garden party, featuring the visually stunning Aga Khan Garden. This event sells out every year, so purchase your tickets in advance!

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