I have to tell you about the Saskatoon Opera's production of Don Pasquale – on now through to the 24^th at the Remai Arts Centre (home of Persephone Theatre). I went to their preview performance Thursday night and I was thoroughly entertained. I had been to one other opera performance in Saskatoon, back when they were still at St. Joe's, and found it to be quite amusing (partially because of its somewhat amateur nature). The lead singers were fantastic, but the chorus was young and inexperienced. The orchestra was fabulous, but the pomp and circumstance of introducing the conductor was prolonged and outdated. The set, costumes and lights were impressive, but the scene changes were long and boring. Well, not much has changed since that production, but this time I knew what to expect, and there was a lot of charm in watching an Italian opera in our little city of Saskatoon.

The content of the play probably won't entice you much, there's 6 scenes in total and runs over 2 hours, which could have been pared down to 30 minutes, but then you wouldn't get all the lovely music and singing, but just in case you think “oh wait, I think I might know that opera – what's it about again?” it's about an old curmudgeony man (Don Pasquale) who gets duped by his nephew, his nephew's girlfriend, and his nephew's girlfriend's brother. But don't go for the exciting plot – go because it is awesome to get such amazing opera singers available right in our own backyards.

If you've never been to an opera before – go! And cross it off your bucket list. This opera especially, because of its fairly modern setting, is easily accessible. And don't worry if you don't understand Italian – there's surtitles!

Tickets range from $46-$88.