FINE ARTS & CLASSICAL
Vancouver Opera: The Magic Flute When: Opens March 9, 7:30 p.m. Where: Queen Elizabeth Theatre, 630 Hamilton St.
Why: The acclaimed VO production of a First Nations inspired imagining of Mozart’s opera classic. Shaped under consultation with the First Peoples’ Cultural Council and First Nations artists, the lush production includes lavish sets, costumes and multimedia. This is truly a unique and West Coast take on the masterpiece.
Tickets: $35 to $200 at vancouveropera.ca Ariel Barnes (cello) & Sarah Hagen (piano): Brahms, Chopin and Debussy When: March 14, 9:30 a.m. Where: Surrey Arts Centre, Studio Theatre, 13750 88th Ave.
Why: Join Classical Coffee Concerts host pianist Hagen in concert with cellist Barnes performing beautiful music by three greats. Take in refreshments before the gig.
Tickets: $22.50 at tickets.surrey.ca Vancouver Bach Choir: Verdi/Wagner Bicentennial When: March 23, 8 p.m. Where: Orpheum Theatre, 884 Granville St.
Why: It’s a double-birthday bash when the Vancouver Bach Choir celebrates the 200th birthdays of genius opera composers Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner. The joint program draws comparisons to the rivalry between the two that rose up owing to their differences and popularity. The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra joins the choir along with UBC Opera Ensemble soloists who will tackle such giants as Rigoletto, Tannheauser and others.
Tickets: $25 to $59, available at boxoffice.vancouversymphony.ca Vancouver Symphony Orchestra presents Pizzarelli Plays Ellington When: April 26- April 27, 8 p.m. Where: Orpheum Theatre, 884 Granville St.
Why: Guitarist John Pizzarelli is a local favourite for his swinging style and jazzy croon. With his great quartet and the VSO, he’ll present classics from the Ellington playbook ranging from Satin Doll to Perdido. Always a great gig.
Tickets: $21 to $88, available at boxoffice.vancouversymphony.ca Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Centre When: May 5, 3 p.m. Where: Vancouver Playhouse, 600 Hamilton St.
Why: This young quintet is the house unit for the acclaimed Lincoln Centre so you really needn’t question its considerable chops.
Tickets: $36, available at friendsofchambermusic.ca