Saturday Afternoon At the Opera

The world of opera comes to the Barn stage with international singers Joyce El-Khoury (soprano) and Jason Howard (baritone). Receiving Juno attention for her debut album Écho, Joyce has performed leading roles around the world from the Sydney Opera House to Glyndebourne, Canadian Opera Company, Opera National de Bordeaux, Bavarian State Opera and Santa Fe. Of her recent portrayal of Violetta at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, critics wrote that "her pianissimi are exquisite, her coloraturas bold, fearless and immaculate, and the expressiveness of her timbre touches the heart."

Raised in the rich singing tradition of South Wales, Jason Howard is now recognized as one of the UK's leading performers on the international operatic stage. Known for having a voice “as rich and smooth as old port”, Jason has sung to critical acclaim throughout Europe and North America, in addition to his many UK engagements.

Accompanied by Brian Finley at the piano, the program includes Vissi D’Arte (Tosca), Credo (Otello), and other arias and duets selected from Don Giovanni, La traviata, Eugene Onegin, The Merry Widow and more.

Joyce El-Khoury, soprano Jason Howard, baritone Brian Finley, piano

Before the Performance: Dare to Pair (11:30 am to 1:15 pm) Opera Echos How does opera fit with the Northumberland countryside? A local symphony conductor should know! Peterborough Symphony conductor Michael Newnham is on hand to consider the possibilities, as wine expert Duarte da Silva (Executive Director of the Prince Edward County Wine Growers Association) and chef Ravi Anandappa (Antonia’s Bistro) offer wine-tasting and lunch.

Pre-Concert Chat (1:00 pm) - included with your ticket! On Opera: Michael Newnham discusses opera and the repertoire of the day.