For more than three decades, the Little Opera Company has occupied a unique place in Winnipeg’s cultural landscape, providing opportunities for singers to develop their craft while bringing intimate and engaging performances to audiences across the city. Now in its 31st season, the organization is inviting audiences to experience a musical evening that celebrates romance, reflection, and the enduring connection between opera and musical theatre. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } Taking place June 5 and 6 at First Unitarian Universalist Church, At the Opera Why Not? Life, Love and Longing promises an evening of beloved songs performed by seven accomplished soloists accompanied by pianist Cary Denby. Featuring selections from Broadway classics and operatic repertoire alike, the cabaret-style production is designed to showcase the emotional power that both genres share. For Little Opera Company co-founder and Artistic Director Spencer Duncanson, the event reflects many of the values that have guided the organization since its founding more than three decades ago. “You know, I think what makes me proud, if that's the right term, or pleased is the fact that we were able to be here for so many fine singers as a vehicle for developing their craft,” he said. “And also I have to say that the idea of being able to have outreach to the community has been one of our major points that make us happy.” A Musical Family That Keeps Bringing Artists Back One of the featured performers in this year’s cabaret is veteran Winnipeg vocalist Donnalynn Grills, whose relationship with the Little Opera Company stretches back nearly three decades. “I hadn't realized how long I have been part of Little Opera Company,” Grills said. “I went back and had a look at past seasons and my first concert with Little Opera Company was in 1996.” Asked why she continues to return to the company after so many years, Grills pointed to the sense of community that has developed among performers and supporters. “You know, it's like a family. It truly is like a family,” she said. “And I'm now part of the board as well. And you know, it's just I really enjoy the people and the opportunities that I have had to do some great roles and just some great songs. So it's lovely.” Bridging the Gap Between Opera and Musical Theatre While some audience members may see opera and musical theatre as distinct art forms, Duncanson believes the divide is much smaller than many people realize. “We've done something like this in the past,” he said. “The idea that so many people think of opera, as soon as you say the word opera, they panic.” According to Duncanson, opera and musical theatre have always influenced one another, and many of the world’s greatest opera singers have successfully crossed into Broadway repertoire. “Well, opera is akin to musical theater,” he explained. “The same people who will go and spend thousands of hours watching musical theater have never seen an opera.” He noted that the exchange between the two genres continues today, pointing to the increasing crossover between major opera houses and Broadway performers. “The number of opera singers who have done Broadway is astounding,” he said. “And just recently, the Met is having Broadway singers come to do their debut at the Met.” For Duncanson, contemporary works often blur the distinction entirely. “It's getting harder and harder to tell them apart from musical theater,” he said. “You tell me Sweeney Todd is that musical or is that an opera? You know West Side Story is that a musical or opera?” Songs of Hope, Heartbreak and Human Connection The evening’s repertoire explores a broad emotional landscape, with songs that touch on love, loss, longing, resilience, and hope. Grills will perform several emotionally charged selections, including the iconic “I Dreamed a Dream” from Les Misérables. “She’s sort of lamenting, you know, what has happened,” Grills explained of the character Fantine. “It used to be, it used to be good for me. And she's, and it's a lament, just sort of going back and trying to figure out what has gone wrong.” She will also perform “Old Maid” from 110 in the Shade, a song that explores a woman’s fears about loneliness and societal expectations, as well as “I Won’t Mind,” a poignant piece from the unproduced musical The Other Franklin. The common thread connecting the evening’s music, according to Duncanson, is its ability to reflect universal human experiences. “We have Summertime from Porgy and Bess,” he said. “We have Ragtime, Our Children. That's going to be sung by Joanna Loepp Thiessen and Raymond Sokalski. It's a beautiful, beautiful piece.” More importantly, he believes each selection speaks directly to the realities of everyday life. “Every piece speaks about an element of our everyday living,” Duncanson said. “And at a time when we're all feeling the pressure of what's going on, I think that all of this music gives us an outlet for our emotions.” A Showcase of Manitoba Vocal Talent The production also serves as a celebration of Manitoba’s vocal community, bringing together established performers and emerging artists. Among the featured soloists are Matthew Pauls, Nolan Kehler, Joanna Loepp Thiessen, Raymond Sokalski, Sloan Smith, Margo Harding, and Donnalynn Grills. Duncanson praised the depth of talent represented in the cast, highlighting both accomplished veterans and rising stars. Speaking of young soprano Sloan Smith, he said, “It's a voice that I think is to be reckoned with in time.” Smith has recently graduated from the University of Manitoba and is heading to Cincinnati to pursue graduate studies on a full scholarship. Meanwhile, Duncanson described Harding as “a wonderful singer” and “a beautiful, beautiful soprano,” while also praising the artistry of the other performers who will take the stage throughout the evening. Together, the seven soloists will present a program designed to appeal to longtime opera lovers as well as those who may be attending an opera-related event for the very first time. More Than a Concert Part of what distinguishes At the Opera Why Not? Life, Love and Longing is its relaxed cabaret atmosphere. Rather than traditional concert seating, audience members will enjoy an intimate setting complete with food, beverages, and opportunities to socialize. Catering will be provided by Capital Grill, while a cash bar will offer wine, beer from a local brewery, and soft drinks. Duncanson expects the combination of music, food, and fellowship to create a memorable experience. When asked what he hopes audiences take away from the event, his answer was simple. “I hope that they will, one, take away the idea that the Little Opera Company is an audience-friendly group and that they will come back again,” he said. “And I hope that they will have an incredible evening, you know, just fun and laughter.” Grills echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the welcoming spirit that has helped sustain the organization for more than 30 years. “Some great food, a chance to hear some wonderful singers, some wonderful music, and just realize that Little Opera Company is a good investment and we provide a good time,” she said. “So come on out.” Whether you're a lifelong opera enthusiast, a devoted musical theatre fan, or simply looking for a memorable night out, At the Opera Why Not? Life, Love and Longing offers a rare opportunity to enjoy outstanding local vocal talent in an intimate cabaret setting complete with food, drinks, laughter, and music that speaks directly to the heart. With a program featuring everything from Broadway favourites to timeless classics, performed by some of Manitoba's finest singers, this promises to be an evening of exceptional entertainment and emotional connection. Performances take place on Friday, June 5 and Saturday, June 6 at First Unitarian Universalist Church, 603 Wellington Crescent. With seating limited and tickets selling quickly, audiences are encouraged to reserve their seats soon for what is sure to be one of the most enjoyable musical events of the season.