Oshawa Opera's 'La Voix Perdue' can be found Nov. 24 2017 at the Kingsview United Church

Oshawa Opera presents La Voix Perdue at the Kingsview United Church Nov. 24 2017. The short opera features New York-bases soprano, Bridget Hogan, and was composed by Peter Skoggard.

SlowCity.ca asked O.O. founder Kristine Dandavino to get us up to speed on opera in Oshawa.

Q: As a complete neophyte to opera in Oshawa what should I expect if I go?

KD: Oshawa Opera presents concerts of operas, so, we take a full opera, keep the most essential moments of the opera and present it in a concert format. All our music is ‘unplugged’, the acoustics of Kingsview United Church are beautiful and the voices ring well in the hall. We keep it short and sweet and we always serve cookies. Come for the cookies!

Q: La Voix Perdue - why did you choose that one?, How do you determine what shows to put on each year?

KD: With Canada turning 150 years old, I wanted to celebrate Canadian music, new music. La Voix Perdue was composed for Soprano Bridget Hogan, now living in NYC, she was raised in Durham Region. It is a short opera that includes a monologue over music and then operatic singing. As for selecting a season, that is always hard work; I am not sure I have found the perfect formula but, so far, our audience is returning so, I must be doing something right!

Q: Is it as tough a battle as it seems to run an opera company in Oshawa? Or are there structures in place to aid you in your endeavours?

KD: Lets put it this way, I was called "insane" and "delusional".  Is it a tough battle? Of course it is, but, most live performances are having problems. Humans are staying home and watching music on Youtube. Don't get me wrong, I love YouTube but, it is nothing like a live performance. I love all music. I try to go out as much as I can in the GTA to listen to live performances, it is not always easy with my busy schedule, but, if I can find the time, anyone can find the time. I am trying to build partnerships with other classical groups in the area and I think, with time, it will grow. I sat on the Cultural and Leadership Coucil for 2 years, that helped. Social Media helps. But, the best advertising is returning audience members. I love seeing audience members that have returned every concert. I am grateful for their support.

To add your support to Oshawa Opera visit their website ( and go to a show)