Vancouver, BC – written January 10th, 2025 – The Westcoast German News Blog is set to cover one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year—the Vancouver Opera’s presentation of “Flight.” This opera, hailed as a modern classic by composer Jonathan Dove, will grace the Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver for three exclusive performances on February 8, 13, and 16, 2025.
“Flight” stands out for its unique inspiration drawn from the real-life story of Mehran Karimi Nasseri, an Iranian refugee who famously lived in Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport for 18 years. This intriguing narrative also sparked the creation of the Tom Hanks movie, “The Terminal.” With its rich blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and hope, “Flight” offers an operatic journey unlike any other.
The production is spearheaded by a distinguished Canadian creative team. Morris Panych, a lauded director known for works like “The Overcoat: A Musical Tailoring,” brings his insightful vision to this production. Set designer Ken MacDonald has crafted a stage that echoes the fluid elegance of Eero Saarinen’s TWA terminal at JFK, while Dana Osborne’s costumes and Alan Brodie’s lighting design complete this captivating tableau.
Tom Wright, the General Director of Vancouver Opera, expresses his enthusiasm for this season opener, stating, “Flight is both profoundly moving and wonderfully comedic. It’s a privilege to introduce Vancouver audiences to such a compelling story of resilience and humanity against the unconventional backdrop of an airport.”
The opera unfolds in a bustling airport lounge interrupted by a storm-induced delay, setting the stage for a confluence of fascinating characters. The Refugee, played by Cameron Shahbazi—making his debut with Vancouver Opera—anchors the narrative amidst a cast that includes Caitlin Wood as The Controller, Asitha Tennekoon as Bill, and Megan Latham as The Older Woman. Newcomers Andriana Chuchman as Tina and Alex Hetherington as The Stewardess join an ensemble renowned for their emotional depth and vocal prowess.
Leslie Dala conducts the Vancouver Opera Orchestra, delivering Dove’s intricate score with precision. The music captures the bustling, transient nature of airport life, brimming with humor, poignancy, and tension. Jonathan Dove and librettist April De Angelis have crafted an opera with melodies that resonate deeply, celebrated for their emotional range and contemporary relevance since its premiere in 1998.
As Vancouver Opera embarks on its 65th season, “Flight” is set to soar, offering audiences a chance to engage with a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. This production, featuring an all-Canadian cast and creative team, highlights Vancouver Opera’s commitment to delivering extraordinary operatic experiences.
For opera lovers and culture aficionados, “Flight” promises to be an unmissable event. To purchase tickets or learn more about Vancouver Opera’s 2024–2025 season, visit their official website at vancouveropera.ca. Join us for an evening of soaring music, compelling stories, and a celebration of the human spirit.
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