Carmen: another Tillotson triumph

Review

Her strong, sexy, independent – even feminist – rendition of Georges Bizet's titular character was as great as you will find on any opera stage. First and foremost, Ms. Tillotson is an actress, who doesn't rest on the laurels of her vocal gifts (which are prodigious).

Vanessa: a shadow play revival

Review

We learn that every character has a shadow self, hiding secrets. Director Schlather keeps staging to a minimum; in fact, everyone walks in a slow, stylized movement, allowing their shadows to slowly follow.

Thomas shines as tortured writer in COC's Werther

Review

In the title role we have superstar American tenor Russell Thomas. He brought infallible vocals to this role. His warm yet steely timbre suited perfectly for Massenet's large romantic score. His 'Pourquoi me réveiller' was a highlight of the night for sure, showing off Thomas' impressive mastery of dynamics and vocal line.

Canuck Cantatas make the future look bright

Review

Each of these pieces worked remarkably well in their current iterations, but each could very well be fleshed out into what I think could be successful additions to the Canadian canon.

Barbara Hannigan: A Force of Nature

Review

A giant video screen that had hovered ominously over the stage came alive with a real-time projection from behind the orchestra. While Hannigan's back was to the audience, we saw her from the orchestra's point of view.

Troubled women & striking stories: Bluebeard & Erwartung at COC

Review

It's an incredible night of theatre and music. Intense emotions, thick with ambiance, and incredible production value.

Fleming & Hampson: Dream casting in Nixon In China

Review

Fleming and Hampson are obviously a dream cast and collectively the three scenes become the classiest expression ever of the P.T. Barnum quote, 'Always leave them wanting more.'

Handel's Hercules marches solemnly into Carnegie Hall

Review

This is the English Consort after all. Its impeccable musicianship and Bicket's enlightened conducting are not to be taken for granted.

Big emotions, big voices, great opera: Rigoletto at the COC

Review

As I'd hoped, Quinn Kelsey's Rigoletto was outstanding. He seems to really be at the height of his Verdi game, and if he's not, boy am I excited to see that happen. His voice was powerful, colourful, and technically brilliant. His physicality though? That was stellar.

COC Barber of Seville chock full of debuts

Review

TL;DR Boy loves girl. Girl loves boy. Boy wants to know she loves him for him, not his wallet. Boy employs services of person to get girl. Girl may or may not make it easier. Old guy tries to stop it (which may or may not involve money) or marry girl himself. Hijinks ensue. Some slash everyone gets married.