Edmonton Opera is set to premiere a new production of “Così fan tutte” on March 19, 2022.

The work, which will be conducted by Justo Valdés and directed by Kim Mattice Wanat (both in their company debuts), will aim to redirect the opera’s famed titular punchline and “re-examine the way women are portrayed in the story.”

“We first meet the alter ego of Despina, (Despoza) a mischievous Cupid, who cannot help herself from interjecting conniving energy in the lives of unsuspecting mortals,” Mattice Wanat said in an official press statement. “She uses her skill as a Master of disguise to transform in myriad ways, motivating the boys’ tutor Alfonso to engage in a playful wager; proving that if tested, the virtuous sisters will succumb to the charms of other suitors.”

The opera will be headlined by Stephanie Tritchew, Jennifer Taverner, Caitlin Wood, Asitha Tennekoon, Clarence Frazer, and Neil Craighead.

There will be additional performances of the opera on March 22 and 25.