UBC Opera performs Leonard Bernstein’s satirical operetta Candide, February 5 to 8
Rarely presented in Vancouver, the production blends musical theatre and opera with a philosophically rooted storyline
SPONSORED POST BY UBC Opera
Christopher Gaze (left) and the artists of UBC Opera (photo courtesy UBC Opera).
UBC Opera presents Leonard Bernstein’s two-act operetta Candide in the Old Auditorium from February 5 to 7 at 7:30 pm and February 8 at 2 pm, as part of UBC Opera’s celebration of the Old Auditorium Centenary.
Candide is a must-see satirical operetta that is fit for lovers of musical theatre and opera alike. Bernstein’s production, based on French Enlightenment writer and philosopher Voltaire’s 1759 novella of the same title, effortlessly blends wit and philosophy with unforgettable music.
Audiences are invited to follow the innocent and optimistic Candide, who, under the guidance of Dr. Pangloss, believes that every misfortune is part of a grand divine plan. Banished from his home, Candide embarks on adventures that take him across Europe and the New World, where he encounters war, shipwrecks, natural disasters, and betrayals. Throughout his trials, he remains strong in his resilience and his belief that “all is for the best”—until he discovers that true fulfillment in life comes from nurturing one’s own garden.
To guide audiences through this tangled web of Candide’s journey, Bard on the Beach’s founding artistic director Christopher Gaze will assume the role of the Narrator. Director Nancy Hermiston will lead the UBC Opera Ensemble, while conductor Jonathan Girard will helm members of the UBC Symphony Orchestra.
The artists of UBC Opera. Photo courtesy UBC Opera
A Preshow Talk with Dr. Hedy Law: Voltaire’s to Bernstein’s Candide will take place on February 7 at 6:30 pm and February 8 at 1 pm in the Old Auditorium. This informative discussion will be hosted by Law, who is a professor of musicology and director of the UBC School of Music.
The lyrics for Candide are primarily by Richard Wilbur with contributions by Stephen Sondheim, John La Touche, Lillian Hellman, Dorothy Parker, and Bernstein. It is sung in English and all four performances will include surtitles.
Candide was originally performed as a Broadway musical in 1956, and over the years it has rarely been staged in Vancouver. UBC Opera last presented the operetta with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in 2015, and prior to that, Vancouver Opera performed the show during its 1995–96 season.
Tickets to this once-in-a-decade presentation and more details are available through UBC Opera.
Post sponsored by UBC Opera.
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