There are four operas that rarely get performances in North America, making them all the more essential viewing for the weekend. Here are our top five operas to see this weekend (in alphabetical order by company).

Billy Budd – Central City Opera

Britten’s masterwork kicks off on Saturday with a production conducted by John Baril and directed by Ken Cazan. Daniel Norma, Joshua Hopkins, Kevin Burdette Dennis Jesse, and Federico De Michelis star.

Ariadne auf Naxos – Cincinnati Opera

Strauss’ unique opera takes the stage on Saturday and Sunday for the last time with Twyla Robinson in the title role, Kyle Van Schoonhoven is Bacchus, and Liv Redpath is Zerbinetta. Jun Märkl conducts a production by Omer Ben Seadia.

The Ghosts of Versailles – Glimmerglass Festival

Starting Saturday, audiences will get a chance to check out John Corigliano’s classic work with Yelena Dyachek, Jonathan Bryan, Kayla Siembieda, Ben Schaefer, Brian Wallin, and Joanna Latini. Joseph Colaneri conducts a production by Jay Lesenger.

La Finta Giardiniera – Portland Opera

Mozart’s rare gem kicks off on Friday and Sunday in a production by Chas Rader-Shieber. The opera will star Mark A. Thomsen, Lindsay Ohse, Thomas Cilluffo, Antonia Tamer, and Camille Sherman. George Manahan conducts.

Così Fan Tutte – Santa Fe Opera

Mozart’s third Da Ponte opera launches on Saturday with a star cast that includes Amanda Majeski, Emily D’Angelo, Ben Bliss, Tracy Dahl, Jarrett Ott, and Rod Gilfry. Harry Bicket conducts and R.B. Schlather directs.