In Shakespeare’s most psychologically brutal tragedy, a single lie unravels everything, with music as devastating as the emotions it unleashes.
Poison in the water: Shakespeare's story of paranoia, jealousy, and ambition is brought to new heights in the hands of Verdi and Boito. The two would later collaborate on the operatic adaptation of Shakespeare's Falstaff — Verdi's only comedy.
Otello starts in a violent storm scene — a musical masterpiece in itself — which drops listeners into the wild rage and irrational doubts in the mind of Otello himself.
Is it ambition? Or is it jealousy? When Iago lays the groundwork to destroy Otello's marriage and snatch his rank, it's fascinating to consider why. Is he righting a wrong, removing a volatile man from leadership? Or, is he an insecure monster who can't stomach others' happiness?
Desdemona, Otello's wife, is a culmination of opera's tension between tragedy and beauty. Her signature tune, known as the "Willow Song", comes in Act IV, where she an extraordinary moment where she envisions her own death, and remembers the old song about a woman who loved a man who abandons her.
Cantare/Calgary Opera Children’s Choir
For over 25 years, our organization has enjoyed a long and rewarding association with Calgary Opera. Over close to 40 productions, we have provided Calgary’s biggest stage with prepared, attentive and focused singers of varying ages who are excellent musicians. Our singers love the experience of being welcomed into a professional organization that gives us the opportunity to share our singing (and acting) skills in an professional environment (costumes/sets/props) while learning about the operatic art form and the stories of the great operas.
In addition, all choristers in our program have the opportunity to attend the Dress Rehearsal for Calgary Opera productions. Learn more about our collaboration with Calgary Opera
Cantare Opera Children’s Choir is a mix of choristers from Cantiga, Cantare, and Cantando. Cantare choristers apply to participate in opera productions on top of their programmed singing in Cantare.