Squamish opera singer Lyndon Ladeur is putting a fresh take on a classic opera.
He is performing in a new production of Mozart’s Così fan tutte at a church in Vancouver.
(Closer to home, Ladeur will be singing on Nov. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Squamish’s St. John the Divine Anglican Church with the Howe Sound Performing Arts Association.)
Ladeur, a Howe Sound Secondary grad, is playing the lead role of Ferrando in Così fan tutte (“They all do it”).
"Ferrando has such gorgeous music," says Ladeur in a press release. “It includes some of Mozart's most recognizable and beloved highlights. It's exciting to perform such iconic pieces, and to play one of the leading men in this classic romantic comedy.”
The opera is on Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7 and 8.
The production re-imagines the opera by setting it at a modern-day beachside resort, so the show is full of irreverent modern touches and a fun tropical vibe, he says. Two couples think they have the ideal relationships – until an old cynic decides to prove them wrong.
“I think this is a really funny and accessible production that has something for everyone, whether they're a longtime opera-goer or a total newcomer to classical music,” says Ladeur.
Stage director Robin Hahn says that Ladeur was a perfect fit for the character of Ferrando.
"Ferrando requires an artist with an exceptional voice as well as great dramatic and comedic gifts," says Hahn. Lyndon was unquestionably our first choice for the role.”
Ladeur is a rising star on the Canadian opera scene, having recently been awarded Best Male Vocalist at the International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival and first place at the BC Provincial Concerto Competition and the BC Provincial Performing Arts Festival.
Così fan tutte is presented by Opera Mariposa. For more details, see operamariposa.com.
