celebrating 100 years of puccini’s legacy
SISTER ANGELICA
A Tragic Tale of Passion, Salvation and Faith: Puccini’s Sister Angelica
Step into the world of Puccini’s Sister Angelica, a captivating 90-minute one-act opera that’s perfect for both newcomers and seasoned fans. Performed by the powerful voices of Abridged Opera, along with the exceptional instrumentalists of the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, every note and emotion comes to life. With Maestro Robert Franz at the helm, the performance delivers Puccini’s expressive music with all the passion and precision it deserves.
The Story
Suor Angelica (Sister Angelica) is a one-act opera by the celebrated Italian composer Giacomo Puccini. Set within the serene walls of a convent, it tells the tragic and heart-wrenching tale of Sister Angelica, a woman seeking peace and redemption. Her life of quiet routine and repentance is upended when she receives devastating news from her estranged family, forcing her to confront the painful secrets of her past.
Puccini masterfully explores universal themes of maternal love, faith, and the pursuit of salvation in the face of great sorrow. This deeply emotional and beautifully crafted opera remains a beloved classic, leaving a lasting impact on audiences around the world.
Join Us for a Special Anniversary Event
In honor of our 10-year journey, Abridged Opera invites you to be part of this landmark event. Whether you’re new to opera or a lifelong fan, this is an opportunity to experience one of Puccini’s most poignant works in two intimate, beautiful settings in just 90 minutes!
Why You Can’t Miss This
- Live Orchestra: Experience Puccini’s score performed by talented musicians from the Windsor Symphony Orchestra.
- A Celebration of Local Talent: This production is not just a show; it’s a celebration of Abridged Opera’s decade-long journey in bringing opera to life in our community.
- Intimate, Stunning Venues: Both Assumption Church and Leamington United provide a breathtaking backdrop, enhancing the mood and atmosphere of the performance.
We can’t wait to share this beautiful production with you—See you at the opera!
Secure Your Seats Today
Celebrate with us and let the music of Puccini guide you through an evening of passion, beauty, and emotion. Don’t wait—tickets are selling fast, and this is a once-in-a-decade celebration you won’t want to miss.
Use Code ‘EARLY10’ for 10% OFF *
*Valid until October 31.
Schubert’s Mass in G followed by Sister Angelica
Running time: 1.5 hours
General Admission: $40
When: 7:30 PM, Nov. 30, 2024
Sister Angelica
Running time: 1 hour
General Admission: $40
When: 3:30 PM, Dec. 01, 2024
Cast & Crew
Maria Vetere, Sister Angelica
Canadian soprano, Dr. Maria Vetere, has performed in Canada, the United States, Great Britain, South America, and Europe and is quickly establishing herself as a world-class Italian soprano. In 2019, she gave a triumphant debut at New York’s prestigious Carnegie Hall and has been featured and reviewed in Opera Canada Magazine, the New York Times and international newspapers. Reviews have deemed “her singing not only combines the tonal beauty of Tebaldi but just a touch of Callas’ cutting edge” (The Philadelphia Local). “Vetere drew an abundance of meaning and beautiful vocal technique, earning the huge applause which followed.” (Operawire), “Everything—from her spot on pronunciation to her exquisite dynamics—lived and breathed Mimì” (Opera Canada). “Vetere is a rising star.” (U Globo, Brazil).
ERIN ARMSTRONG, La Zia Principessa
Erin Armstrong is well-known in Windsor/Essex for her many creative endeavours as well as her ability to captivate an audience with her commanding stage presence and warm vocal colour. She is the founder and director of Music Moves Kids, Abridged Opera, former conductor of the Windsor Community Choir, music director at Leamington United Church, UMEI Christian High School, and a regular performer/collaborator with the Windsor Symphony Orchestra. Role highlights include, Mrs Grose (Turn of the Screw), Amneris (Aida), Octavian (Rosenkavalier), Adalgisa (Norma), Beppe (L’amico Fritz), La Zia Principessa (Suor Angelica), and Dalilah (Samson et Dalilah).
Brianna DeSantis, Sister Genevieve
Dr. Brianna DeSantis is a coloratura soprano based in Windsor, Ontario. She is known for her ability to connect with audiences through her expressive and charismatic stage presence. Recent stage credits include chorister in Verdi’s La Traviata with Detroit Opera. Other notable roles include The Governess in The Turn of the Screw (2022) and The Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute (2018 ) with Abridged Opera. Digital credits include the Windsor Symphony Orchestra’s holiday album, “Christmas eh?” where she was a featured soloist (November 2022) and her ongoing role in Sonata Music Adventures’ early childhood music education YouTube channel as “Miss Brianna.”
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As Windsor-Essex's premiere opera company, our mission is to connect the community with exciting, educational, and professional productions that cater to a wide and varied audience.
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