Opera lovers, get ready for a season of passion, power, and intrigue as Manitoba Opera (MO) announces its highly anticipated 2025/26 lineup. The company’s 53rd season will feature two of the most celebrated operas of all time—Puccini’s Tosca and Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. These productions, performed by world-class artists, promise to deliver an unforgettable experience at the Centennial Concert Hall.
A Season of Drama and Delight
“Opera is a world of passion, power, and intrigue, and our 2025/26 season is brimming with all three,” said Larry Desrochers, General Director & CEO. “Whether you crave high-stakes drama or delightful mischief, we have two extraordinary productions that promise unforgettable nights at the opera.”
The season opens with Tosca on November 22, 26, and 28, 2025, an electrifying thriller filled with love, jealousy, and betrayal. Then, in the spring, the stage transforms into a whirlwind of comic chaos with The Marriage of Figaro on April 18, 22, and 24, 2026. Both operas will be sung in Italian with projected English translations.
Tosca (November 22, 26, 28, 2025)
A gripping tale set in revolutionary Rome, Tosca follows the famous singer Floria Tosca, whose passionate love for the painter Cavaradossi is threatened by the corrupt Chief of Police, Scarpia. As political intrigue unfolds, Tosca is forced into an impossible decision—will she submit to Scarpia’s desires to save her beloved, or will she fight back at any cost?
This heart-stopping drama features some of Puccini’s most iconic music, including Tosca’s impassioned aria “Vissi d’arte,” Cavaradossi’s haunting “E lucevan le stelle,” and the sinister “Te Deum” of Scarpia.
Stellar Cast:
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Marina Costa-Jackson makes her MO debut as Tosca, bringing her “molten intensity” and powerhouse vocals to the role.
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David Pomeroy returns as Cavaradossi, following his acclaimed performance as Don José in MO’s Carmen.
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Gregory Dahl reprises his chilling portrayal of Scarpia, a role for which he has earned high praise.
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Maestro Tyrone Paterson leads the orchestra in this edge-of-your-seat production.
The Marriage of Figaro (April 18, 22, 24, 2026)
Mozart’s beloved comic opera The Marriage of Figaro is a whirlwind of wit, romance, and mistaken identities. On the eve of their wedding, Figaro and Susanna find themselves entangled in a scheme to outwit the philandering Count Almaviva, who has his sights set on the bride-to-be. With a mix of clever disguises, sharp humor, and heartfelt moments, this opera is a masterful social commentary wrapped in musical brilliance.
From the famous overture to the touching final ensemble, Mozart’s masterpiece sparkles with unforgettable melodies and lively drama.
Outstanding Cast:
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Phillip Addis makes his MO debut as the cunning Count Almaviva.
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Jamie Groote returns as the Countess, following her praised performance as Fiordiligi in Così fan tutte.
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Robert Mellon debuts as Figaro, bringing both vocal prowess and comedic charm.
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Caitlin Wood takes on the role of Susanna, delighting audiences with her effervescent stage presence.
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Peter McGillivray returns as Bartolo, and Krisztina Szabó debuts as the feisty Marcellina.
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Brandon-born conductor Gordon Gerrard leads this dynamic and effervescent production.
Tickets and Subscription Information
Tickets for the 2025/26 season are currently available by subscription only, with single tickets set to go on sale in early summer. For more details, visit mbopera.ca or contact the Box Office at 204-944-8824.
With its compelling mix of high drama and comedic genius, Manitoba Opera’s 2025/26 season promises to be a thrilling ride. Whether you’re drawn to the tragic intensity of Tosca or the mischievous charm of The Marriage of Figaro, these productions are set to captivate audiences and celebrate the power of opera at its finest.