Opera Atelier has launched a crowdfunding campaign “Come Fly With Us” to support the renovation of its Flying Machine.

On its official crowdfunding campaign, the company noted that “A flying machine is an integral component of any 17th or 18th century opera/ballet. It serves as an important storytelling device that bridges heaven and earth and combines artistry with aeronautics.

“Opera Atelier’s existing flying machine was built at the inception of the company and has been dressed in multiple guises and been featured in many of the works in our repertoire,” the description continues. “Though it has lasted far longer than any automobile, its general wear and tear and recent developments in safety standards have forced its retirement!”

Resident Set Designer and Art Director Gerard Gauci has thus designed a new flying machine for the company’s upcoming production of “Orpheus and Eurydice.”

The campaign is seeking out $14,802 USD with a wide range of tiers and perks for those who participate. For example, those who donate at the highest tier ($5,000 CAD) will receive a tax receipt, a 2023-24 Baroque Court Membership, two tickets to the “Orpheus and Eurydice” performance, and a number of other perks, including a signed show poster, a graphic novel, and a musicology lecture, among others.