Opera Lyra’s Barber of Seville Brings Fresh Twist to Classic

The celebrity haircuts given by Figaro in the Byward Market this month are simply the beginning the fun for Opera Lyra’s rollicking production of The Barber of Seville. Opera Lyra’s internationally acclaimed twist on the classic comedy runs from Saturday, September 26 to Saturday, October 3 at the National Arts Centre.

“With this production we’re really looking forward to showcasing opera to new audiences,” said Opera Lyra’s new Artistic Director Timothy Vernon. “This is just a start of expanding our vision. It must remain entertaining but we want to make sure it’s an elevated experience for all.”

The production of the Barber of Seville kicks off Opera Lyra’s exciting and expanded 2015-2015 season. It stars Pembroke native baritone Joshua Hopkins as Figaro and First Nations mezzo-soprano Marion Newman as Rosina.

“This fresh take on a classic will kick-start our great new season - come for the ride!” added Vernon. “I’m looking forward to expanding the circle of opera lovers throughout the Nation’s Capital.”

Opera Lyra’s unique take on Rossini’s great classic is set in a 1940’s movie studio in Seville where Rosina is a young movie star kept in check by her producer, and owner of the studio, Bartolo. Figaro is the studio stylist and confidant, who assists matinee idol Count Almaviva in a battle of wits to win Rosina’s heart and free her from Bartolo.  As you can imagine, mayhem ensues!

There are only four shows for this production (September 26, 28, 30; and October 3) and tickets start at only $25. For more information on the production and to order tickets, please visit [

 operalyra.ca/barber

](/Users/vicky_000/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/2Y44MU32/operalyra.ca/barber) . For Opera 101, check out [

 operalyra.ca/faqs

](/Users/vicky_000/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/INetCache/Content.Outlook/2Y44MU32/operalyra.ca/faqs) .

This production of The Barber of Seville is highly entertaining and designed to appeal to a broad range of audiences. Created by Dennis Garnum, the production has been a big hit in Vancouver and has received extensive acclaim, capturing the attention of several US opera companies. The show has already been scheduled for presentation in Miami and Pittsburgh.