By Alexander Varty [Straight.com, 10 February 2011]
If there’s anything that links the various contemporary operas that have been produced in Vancouver over the past few years, it’s the diversity of their subject matter. Architecture, astronomy, diplomacy, and madness have all come under librettists’ scrutiny, showing that the operatic form is not afraid to tackle big issues. However, there’s one big issue that modern-day operatic composers seem reluctant to explore—and that’s surprising, given that it was the topic of choice for some of the best-loved operas ever written.