Q & A: Alexander Shelley & Joel Ivany on What Makes Opera a Vital Part of Canada’s Vibrant Culture

(Photo: Alexander Shelley © Rémi Thériault / Joel Ivany © Taylor Long) OperaWire recently attended Canada’s National Arts Centre (NAC) for their National Arts Centre Orchestra (NACO) semi-staged production of Puccini’s “Tosca.” The day after their opening night performance, OperaWire was invited to sit down with the Music Director and Conductor of NACO, Alexander Shelley, and the Artistic Director of Edmonton {…}

Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra 2025-26 Review: Tosca

(Photo: Curtis Perry, Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra) Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra presented a semi-staged production of Puccini’s “Tosca,” in Salle Southam Hall, on Sept. 10, 2025 in celebration of this year’s season opening, marking the tenth season for Alexander Shelley as Music Director and Conductor. The evening was full of exciting musical moments by the orchestra and leading {…}

Q & A: Co-Directors Joel Ivany & Reneltta Arluk on ‘Messiah Complex,’ A Revolutionary Approach to Handel’s Masterpiece

Handel’s “Messiah” is ubiquitous with the holiday season. Everywhere you look, opera companies and major choral ensembles are revving up to showcasing this towering masterpiece. Even the pandemic has not slowed down the tradition, with companies turning to unique approaches to the work as a means of sustaining the holiday spirit. Then there’s the “Messiah Complex,” a collaboration between Against {…}