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SERIES

The Tyee Goes to the Opera

With the aim of blowing away a few stereotypes, opera aficionado David Tracey attends each production of Vancouver Opera's 50th season, inviting along various guests who have never attended an opera before, and relaying their reactions as well as his own.

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In This Series

The Tyee Goes to the Opera

The Tyee Goes to the Opera

We'll be attending Vancouver Opera's 50th season, just to blow away a few stereotypes. Up first: 'Norma.'

David Tracey / 1 Dec 2009


Operatic Thugs: 'Nixon in China'

Operatic Thugs: 'Nixon in China'

Vancouver Opera's risky production pays off powerfully. Take it from a punk rocker. Second in the series "Tyee Goes to the Opera."

David Tracey / 15 Mar 2010


Figaro! Figaro!

Figaro! Figaro!

Vancouver Opera is on a roll this year, even during hockey playoffs. Want to join me for 'Madama Butterfly'?

David Tracey / 26 Apr 2010


A Guy's First 'Madama Butterfly': Weep or Sleep?

A Guy's First 'Madama Butterfly': Weep or Sleep?

My guest never understood why people cried at the opera. Now he knows.

David Tracey / 31 May 2010


Guess Who Won a Night at the Opera?

Guess Who Won a Night at the Opera?

Congrats Michael Bean, you're joining our Opera buff David Tracey at 'Madama Butterfly.'

David Beers / 28 May 2010


A Night Backstage at the Opera

A Night Backstage at the Opera

What's it like behind the scenes of big production like Lucia di Lammermoor? Hairy.

David Tracey / 8 Dec 2010


'La Clemenza di Tito' and the 12-Year-Old Canadian Male

'La Clemenza di Tito' and the 12-Year-Old Canadian Male

If your son is like mine, pick a first opera with plenty of 'plot twists.' And 'flames.'

David Tracey / 7 Feb 2011


'La Traviata' Versus iPod Kid

'La Traviata' Versus iPod Kid

Vancouver Opera has cool ways to get young people into Verdi's masterpiece. Even my daughter?

David Tracey / 10 May 2011