Well it’s been a while since my last adventure, but next week I’m off on my next one. This time I’m heading to the opera! Now I know opera is not everyone’s cup of tea, but I think it gets a bit of a bad rap. Or maybe it’s just people don’t often have the opportunity to experience it. Well I’m here to tell you that it’s more accessible than you might think.

I attended my first opera during my undergrad. It was an university production at the University of Ottawa and a bunch of us went, mainly because we didn’t have other plans and it felt classy. But I was surprised how much I enjoyed the spectacle of it. The music, the vocals, the drama, it was astounding! And thus began my interest in opera. Since then I’ve been lucky enough to attend a number of performances both here in Montreal and elsewhere.

So, if you feel like checking out an opera, how do you go about it? Well I have 2 recommendations for you; Opera McGill or Opera de Montreal. I’ve seen several performance by both companies and not only were they spectacular, but they both offer student discounts for the budget-conscious grad student.

This year Opera McGill is celebrating its 60^th year! And they are celebrating in style with a truly spectacular program. Next week (Jan 26-28^th) they are putting on Die Fledermaus, a lighthearted opera by Johann Strauss. The story is filled with assumed identities, love affairs, and farce. Add in the stunning vocals and live accompaniment from the McGill Symphony Orchestra and you have a recipe for success. Every time I attend one of their performances I’m amazed at the power of their voices. I am very much looking forward to the show next Friday. If you’re interested, there are still tickets available here, last time I checked anyways. Maybe I’ll see you there! And if you’re a grad student who is performing, I’d love to hear your perspective! I image it’s a much different GradLife experience from my own.

In addition to Opera McGill, there is the Opera de Montreal. They have quite a good season this year. I attended Aida and Don Giovanni in the fall and La Boehm is coming in May. I’m very excited! This company always does a spectacular job, adding amazing set design and costumes to the music I love so much. They are also trying to get young people interested in opera, so you can sign up for a free under 3o membership and get 2 tickets at 50% off. It makes a night out at the opera more reasonably priced, but the discounted tickets are limited, so book early. If you are at all curious, I really do recommend seeing La Boehm; it’s one of my favourites. Composed by Puccini, it’s a touching love story that will make you laugh and cry.

So if I’ve peaked your curiosity and you’re looking for something different to do, I hope you take a chance and check out one of these upcoming shows. It’s definitely different and you never know what you might enjoy until you try. If you do go, comment below and let me know about your experience!

Banner image by @MustangJoe // Pixabay