Opposite marriage be praised, Miss California! Seattle Opera's production of The Marriage of Figaro (through May 16; tickets: $25-$182) celebrates matrimony both madcap and sentimental, and, along the way, introduces Seattle audiences to a stellar performer, a German mezzo soprano named Daniela Sidram in the "pants" role of Cherubino. more ›

One of the great things about Seattle Opera's Young Artists fall show is that while it's staged and costumed, that's about all you get. The set is "suggested," the lighting minimal, the props bare essentials. So what's on display are the singers' voices and any dramatic talent -- plus, CHAC, compared to McCaw Hall, feels pretty much like your living room. more ›

Trouble in Tahiti / Rita: Seattle Young Artists Program @ CHAC more ›

Just to be clear, while it's called Falstaff -- and there's a lot of Falstaffian drinking, gorging, and attempted wenching in it -- this is really Verdi's Merry Wives of Windsor. Falstaff's boozy run at two of them starts things off, but they take over from there. We have all sorts of compromising connections to Seattle Opera, so don't take our word for how good this show is. Take the word of the guy we dragged along, Lyle George, who said: "That was surprising. From the website, I thought it was a second-tier thing. But I'm ready to go see it again." Strong cast, scenic set, terrific direction by Peter Kazaras. "I've never seen an opera cast that looks as thoroughly comfortable onstage as do the singers in this Falstaff," says the Weekly. Have you? You won't know unless you go, will you? more ›

When the original opera Carmen premiered in Paris in 1875, it was deemed a failure for its shallow, sinful plot. Over one hundred years later, however, Carmen has become one of the most popular operas in the world. more ›