(Source: Vancouver Opera Source)

The Vancouver Opera opens its 65th season with “Die Fledermaus” by Strauss II.

A comic operetta, Die Fledermaus is synonymous with opulence, laughter and exuberance, and Ashlie Corcoran will return to direct the opening performance of the Vancouver Opera season for the second consecutive year.

Vancouver Opera Music Director Jacques Lacombe conducts a cast that includes Lara Ciekiewicz, Mireille Lebel, Owen McCausland, Peter Barrett and Giles Tomkins. Making their Vancouver Opera debuts are Claire De Sévigné and John Chest.

In a statement, Tom Wright, General Director of Vancouver Opera, said: “With its hilarious, champagne-fueled antics, Strauss’ classic operetta Die Fledermaus is the perfect kickoff to our festival season in October and November 2024. Since the title translates to ‘The Bat’ (it is sometimes presented as ‘The Bat’s Revenge’), it would not be surprising to expect an ominous, dark fluttering while rough voices say intense things incomprehensibly. But with its huge chorus, boisterous party scene and rousing songs like ‘King Champagne,’ Strauss’s beloved operetta absolutely oozes charm, wit and good-natured mischief.”

The Vancouver Opera season also includes productions of “Flight” and “Madama Butterfly.”