One of Giuseppe Verdi's most powerful operas comes to the Victoria stage this spring as Pacific Opera Victoria presents Rigoletto as their final performance of the 2024/25 season at the Royal Theatre.
The tragic story of Rigoletto, a court jester consumed by revenge, explores themes of love, betrayal and fate. Audiences will be captivated by the stunning vocal performances and dramatic staging as the opera unfolds in a world of political intrigue and intense emotional turmoil.
What sets this performance of Rigoletto apart is its creative reimagining, as it's set not in the traditional Italian court but in Victorian England. This fresh perspective adds a layer of intrigue and modern relevance, as the opera's timeless themes of power, revenge, and personal sacrifice are updated into a society defined by strict social class structures and the consequences of unchecked authority.
“Based on Victor Hugo’s play, Verdi’s Rigoletto is a timeless masterpiece of the operatic world, filled with iconic music. At its core, Rigoletto is a powerful story of a father’s love for his daughter and the devastating cost of revenge, a price often paid by those we hold most dear,” says Brenna Corner, artistic director of Pacific Opera Victoria.
This performance promises to be a memorable experience, with a talented cast bringing the gripping tale to life. Rigoletto will feature a special highlight: the Pacific Opera Victoria debut of Sarah Dufresne, a rising Canadian star in the opera world. Dufresne brings her incredible vocal talent to the role of Gilda, Rigoletto’s daughter, capturing the innocence and heartbreak of the character with every note.
"Sarah's voice is almost that of crystalline bells; it's so clear and pure – a true pleasure to behold," Corner adds. "Her performance in this role marks an exciting new chapter in her career, and audiences are in for a treat as they witness this fresh talent on Pacific Opera’s stage."
Don’t miss Sarah Dufresne's stunning debut in the timeless opera, Rigoletto – get your tickets today!
Performance dates:
- Wednesday, April 23: 7:30 p.m.
- Friday, April 25: 7:30 p.m.
- Sunday, April 27: 2:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, April 29: 7:30 p.m.
Catch the last of the The Luminary Series, Gryphon Trio ECHO: Memories of the World, on May 29
Tickets are available for purchase online. Enjoy all the benefits of the upcoming 2025/26 season with a subscription to Pacific Opera Victoria.
Buy your tickets today and don’t miss the chance to experience this captivating performance. Visit pacificopera.ca for more details and follow Pacific Opera Victoria on Facebook and Instagram for updates and the occasional glimpse behind the curtain.