Mozart's Lighthearted Opera Buffa Masterpiece
One of the largest producers of opera in North America, the prestigious Canadian Opera Company is set to make musical magic with their 2018/19 season. Their arresting programming continues with an a light-hearted production of Mozart's Cosi Fan Tutte. Sure to warm the spirits and sing away those winter blues, the Italian-language opera buffa may not have the most politically correct title (it roughly translates to 'All Women Do The Same') but that is easily forgiven given historical context and its sparky satirical take on the relationships between men and women.
Mozart's effervescent duets and delightful arias weave together the tale of Don Alfonso and his two young military friends Ferrando and Guglielmo. When Don Alfonso claims that all women are fickle, Ferrando and Guglielmo object, claiming the sisters whom they love would not betray them. Don Alfonso proposes a wager that will prove his point and a rollicking tale of disguise, mistaken identity and confusion ensues when Ferrando and Guglielmo and their lovers become entangled in Don Alfonso's nefarious test of fidelity.
