Operatic delights

Canadian Opera Company's
Altamira Summer Arts Concerts
reviewed by MALCOLM MILLER

The Opera Gala is a curious creature. At the same time offering some of the choicest gems from the opera repertoire yet isolating each from its musico-dramatic context, it's a photo-snap Classic FM approach which might potentially reduce their full effect while increasing their familiarity. For the Canadian Opera Company (COC), Opera Galas, now in their eleventh year sponsored generously by the Altamira Bank, have become something of a tradition and perform a valuable function.

During the period in August before the main season begins, when many Torontonians are still away, tourists flood the downtown avenues and lakeside, crowding into seats and standing areas at the Harbourfront Centre, to enjoy a romantic moonlit showcase of some of the best singers appearing in their forthcoming productions. The location is ideal for the varied programmes, with views of Toronto Island and Lake Ontario one side and the spectacular CN Tower and gigantic Superbowl Stadium on the other, and as night falls, the waters glisten with starlight to the strains of operatic gems.

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