COC's 'Nixon In China' Opera & Dining At Nota Bene

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Four Seasons Centre For Performing Arts

February 04, 2011

 

One of Toronto's most impressive cultural institutions is the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts. Located on the southeast corner of University Avenue and Queen Street West, this spectacular performance space is home to the National Ballet of Canada and the Canadian Opera Company. Completed in 2006, this 2071-seat theatre was designed by Canadian architect Jack Diamond. Visually arresting both inside and out, I love the massive expanses of glass and the huge volumes of space in the public reception zones, including a tiered series of steps overlooking University Avenue where lectures about performances are held prior to their showcase. Inside the theatre, five tiers of seating offer unobstructed vistas with brilliant acoustics. I love! Here's a little tale about it from Toronto Life.

I was fortunate to have an invitation to the Dress Rehearsal for the Canadian Opera Company's 'Nixon In China' Opera this past week. This minimalist opera was created in 1987 with music by the American composer John Adams and a libretto by Alice Goodman. It is about Richard Nixon’s historic five-day visit to China in 1972, a media phenomenon which was viewed simultaneously by millions on their television sets at home. The story intertwines this grand, public spectacle with moments of quiet, private reflection, transforming everyday events into a work of art with universal appeal and significance. The opera was eye-poppingly intense with its lighting and visual effects (the use of 6 big boxy 70s style televisions are a great way to reference the era while they flash images of the actual event) and the musical score was one of the most complex pieces I have ever heard. Truly mesmerizing!

When I enjoy an evening out like this, I always try keep the momentum going by having drinks or a bite afterwards. One venue I adore going to after a Performance at the Four Seasons Centre is the chic Nota Bene at 180 Queen Street West. Only steps away, this award-winning restaurant has a crisp contemporary decor, an exacting menu of culinary perfection, and superb service. With starters ranging from crunchy French Style Onion Rings ($9) to a Crisp Duck Salad with Sumac-Dusted Green Papaya Slaw and Cashews ($15), to mains such as Charred Wild Digby Sea Scallops with Cloud Ear Mushrooms, Pineapple & Coriander Salad and Hot Chili Oil ($27) to B.C. Black Cod with Butternut Squash Puree, Savoy Cabbage and Maple Bacon ($28), this is a luxurious indulgence. Costing around $80-$120 per person it isn't the sort of experience I have often, but it's the kind of treat that rounds out a special evening of Opera or Ballet.  

~ Steven

** Photos not original by me are from Toronto Life, COC and Nota Bene

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