Toronto’s foremost indie opera darlings Against the Grain Theatre, have teamed up with Rue Pigalle to present a virtual concert with tenor Matthew Dalen and pianist Holly Kroeke.

The program is inspired by comfort music we could all use right now.

“These selections deal with love, infatuation, money, fear, loneliness, and incredible joy,” said Holly Kroeke. “They vary from sentimental and profound to sweetly funny. In times like these, we are all reflecting and taking stock of our lives.

Music includes selections from Verdi, Strauss, Gounod, Britten, Sondheim, Randy Newman, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Billy Joel.

“There’s nothing more exciting than hearing an opera singer,” says Joel Ivany, artistic director of Against the Grain Theatre. “When a singer works with an artist to make music, my soul is happy. Our ears are meant to hear and in today’s environment, this is the best way to get it! We’re excited to experiment, imagine and enjoy a cocktail (or two) as we co-host our FIRST virtual opera party.”

On a side note, Matthew Dalen has shared his recipe for a tasty Quarantine Cocktail, called a “Lemon Dropsicle” that you can make yourself to sip during the concert.

All you’ll need are:

• 2.5 oz gin (or vodka)
• 3/4 oz triple sec
• 3/4 oz fresh squeezed lemon
• Dash of vanilla extract

Process:

• Fill your glass with ice, so it’s chilly.
• Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, Triple Sec, vanilla, and fresh lemon juice. Cover and shake vigorously.
• Strain the drink into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lemon twist
• Enjoy!

Virtual Opera Salon takes place Friday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Tickets found here.

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Michael Vincent

Michael Vincent is the Founder and General Manager Ludwig Van. He publishes regularly and writes occasionally. A specialist in digital media for over 20 years, he has worked as a senior editor and is a former freelance classical music critic for the Toronto Star. Michael holds a Doctorate in Music from the University of Toronto.

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